Cavities, also known as tooth decay or dental caries, are one of the most common dental problems among people of all ages. A cavity is a spot on your tooth that can turn into a hole or opening in the tooth that allows bacteria into the deeper layers of the tooth and causes pain, infection, and tooth loss. While cavities can be treated, usually with tooth fillings, it's better to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Understanding what causes decay is the first step in prevention. 

How Tooth Decay Occurs

Cavities form over time, usually as a result of poor oral hygiene. When you do not adequately brush and floss, bacteria feed on the sugars and starches left on your teeth, creating plaque. Plaque is a clear, sticky substance that can cause several problems for your teeth. When plaque hardens into tartar, plaque removal is even more difficult. Tartar also allows bacteria to build up and cause gum disease.

Plaque on your teeth is corrosive and eats away at the protective enamel on your teeth and creates tiny holes. These holes allow bacteria and acid to reach dentin, the softer tissue inside your teeth. In time, the bacteria and acid destroy the inner part of the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp. Pulp is the innermost portion of the tooth where the blood vessels and nerve endings are located. If the decay spreads this far and the pulp becomes swollen and irritated, it can cause pressure that leads to pain. In some cases, infected pulp requires a root canal for treatment rather than a simple tooth filling.

How to Keep Cavities from Forming

The best way to prevent cavities from forming is to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth. Brushing at least twice a day with an anti-plaque toothpaste and daily flossing are the most effective ways to prevent the need for a tooth filling. Seeing your dentist for regular exams and cleaning also helps ensure that small spots of decay do not spread. 

Choosing teeth-healthy snacks and drinks can also help reduce your risk for cavities. Drinking soda or other sugary beverages and eating sticky foods that can get caught in the grooves of your teeth leave behind sugar that feeds plaque. Rinsing your mouth after eating these foods, and choosing snacks like fresh fruits and veggies that can actually help clean your teeth, will help you avoid a tooth filling. 

Finally, talk to your dentist about other preventive measures. Tooth sealants, for example, can help children avoid cavities by protecting enamel. Fluoride treatments can also help strengthen enamel and prevent decay. 

Keep your teeth healthy with dental care from Waterford Dental Health in Waterford, CT. This team provides both general and cosmetic dentistry to support healthy, beautiful smiles, including cleanings, tooth fillings, crowns, veneers, and teeth whitening. Call (860) 447-2235 today to make an appointment or learn more about the practice online.