Our team knows that tooth decay is a widespread issue, and once that can impact kids and adults alike! But we can help, and that includes a few simple preventive tips for avoiding cavities and infections. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about cavity prevention for smiles of all ages, so you can enjoy bright and healthy smiles!
The Causes of Tooth Decay
First, how does a cavity actually form in a tooth? For people young and old, each tooth is coated in a thin layer of enamel, which protects the tooth. However, factors like plaque buildup, which could be brought on by sugar and starch in your diet and/or poor brushing and flossing habits, could weaken enamel. Bacteria could then move past the protective layer and into the sensitive dentin, allowing cavities to form. Lack of treatment then leads to worsening pain in the tooth and eventual infection, which could threaten the stability of it.
The Warning Signs to Recognize
If you attend regular checkup and cleaning visits with our team, then we have a chance to identify cavities in the earliest stages, often before you or your child experiences pain in the tooth. Otherwise, you may not know you need care until your tooth feels sensitive when you eat or drink, or a toothache forms that grows more severe with time instead of subsiding. Persistent pain and sensitivity could mean you need care for your cavity, such as a filling! But we would love to help you avoid tooth decay altogether.
Preventive Actions
When you see us every six months, we can conduct a cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth and polish the smile, which lowers the risk of cavities, as well as bad breath, teeth stains, and even gum disease. For kids, we could also offer preventive actions like fluoride treatments or dental sealants to lower the risk of developing cavities. We also take time to talk about proper brushing and flossing habits, and ways to snack healthier and protect your teeth and gums in the process.
If you haven’t seen us lately, there is still time to schedule your last checkup and cleaning of 2025, so you can start a new year with a healthier smile. You also have the chance to use your remaining 2025 dental insurance benefits and health savings account funds before they expire at the end of the year. If you have any questions about cavity prevention or about treatment with a filling, then contact our office today to get started.
Dental Impressions Talks About Avoiding Cavities
We want to help our patients and their family avoid issues like tooth decay, keeping smiles strong. To schedule an appointment for preventive and general dental care, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
