Dental Decay – Symptoms and Causes

More than 1 in 4 adults in the United States have untreated tooth decay. Dental cavities are tiny holes in the surfaces of the teeth caused by plaque, sticky, film-like bacteria. However, in most cases, dental cavities can be prevented. Poor oral hygiene and unhealthy food habits are significant reasons for the formation of cavities.

What is a cavity?

When a tooth is damaged and starts to decay, the formation of cavities occurs on a tooth. Dental decay can slowly affect the outermost layers of tooth, called enamel and the inner layer called dentin. Once the enamel weakened by acids produced by plaque, a cavity is formed on the tooth surface.

What are the signs of tooth decay?

- Sensitivity to sugary, hot, or cold food

- Constant tooth pain

- Dark spots on the teeth

- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing and flossing

- Loose fillings

- Cavities in teeth

- Difficulty and pain biting certain foods

- Abscesses on teeth that cause pain, swelling, and fever

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit the dentist Albuquerque nm immediately. If caught early, cavities can be reversed, treated, and save the tooth.

What causes cavities?

Eating too much sugary, starchy foods, and carbonated drinks and poor oral hygiene are the two significant reasons for the formation of cavities. When foods with carbohydrates stay on your teeth, they cause tooth decay as the bacteria in the mouth turns them into acids. The acid, bacteria, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to your teeth. The acid can start attacking the tooth enamel, creating holes on the surface of a tooth.

That’s why brushing and flossing at least twice a day is important as it helps to remove the food particles stuck between the teeth and removes the cavities causing bacteria from gums and teeth.

The following things can increase the risk of developing cavities:-

Poor brushing

Many don’t brush their teeth before going to bed. It is advisable to brush twice a day and better if you brush after every meal. When you don’t brush and floss, you are increasing the risk of the formation of plaque and decay.

Dry mouth

Saliva helps to wash away food and plaque from teeth and helps prevent tooth decay. If you have a dry mouth, it can increase the chances of dental decay.

Eating disorders

If you are eating continuously, stomach acid can attack tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

Cavities can be prevented with lifestyle changes. In addition to it, it is best to visit the dental clinics in Albuquerque nm regularly for dental check-ups and dental cleanings to keep dental problems at bay. The dentist Albuquerque nm will look for signs of dental disease and treat it immediately.

The author is a blogger and dentist. Along with the team of professionals, he provides a range of dental services, including tmj treatment Albuquerque that is designed to improve patient’s health and smile. Visit https://www.wgregoryrosedds.com/ for more details.

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