Three Tips to Prevent a Cavity & Maintain a Healthy Smile

A cavity is a “hole” in your tooth that has developed over time. Plaque, consisting mostly of bacteria and acid, clings to your teeth and causes the enamel to break down. The acid, a byproduct of bacteria as it metabolizes the sugar in our diet, breaks down the enamel and dentin of the tooth causing it to decay. Then, the decay creates a cavity—a “hole” in the tooth.

Dr. Strandburg has an immense amount of knowledge and experience in treating cavities. Contact us today to set up an appointment.

When Dr. Strandburg discovers a cavity, he removes the decay, cleans the inside of the tooth, and fills the tooth with a filling. A filling is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged due to decay, fracture, or misuse back to its ideal shape.

How to Prevent a Cavity

If the cavity has been forming in your tooth for a while, your tooth may be sensitive to sweets or hot or cold temperatures. Once the cavity has formed, however, it will need to be removed from the tooth. Also, removing the cavity early prevents it from reaching the nerve of the tooth where it then will either need to be root canal treated or extracted. Fortunately, there are various ways to prevent cavities from forming.

Brush Your Teeth Often

Make sure to brush your teeth in the morning before breakfast, after dinner, and after you consume sugary drinks or food. Brushing your teeth removes the plaque from your teeth, which helps stop cavities from forming. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes to ensure a deep clean. Replace your toothbrush every three months for optimal results.

Floss Regularly

Floss reaches areas of the tooth that a toothbrush is not able to clean. Plaque can hide between teeth and near the gums. If you forget to floss, roughly 40% of your tooth is not being cleaned. Brush your teeth and floss regularly to ensure the entire area of your tooth is clean.

Use a Fluoride Mouthwash

Fluoride fights cavities and can help repair the early stages of tooth decay. While rinsing your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash is important, it should not be used as a substitute for flossing and brushing your teeth.

Make sure to schedule regular dental cleanings with Dr. Strandburg. These cleanings can find cavities and decay that you may not be able to see at home.