One of the biggest dangers of not taking care of your teeth is that cavities can form. The teeth are considered to be the only part of the human body that will not attempt to heal itself. Once a cavity has formed, it can lead to pain and health complications. Here at Central Texas Orthodontics, we are happy to explain why cavity prevention is so important.
What are Cavities and How Do They Happen?
Cavities are holes in the teeth that are caused by decay. Anyone with teeth can get cavities, including babies. Many factors contribute to your likelihood of experiencing this problem. Common causes include drinking too many sugary drinks, frequent snacking, a build-up of plaque or bacteria in your mouth, and not practicing good oral hygiene. Tooth decay is actually one of the most common health problems worldwide. While medical and scientific advancements have allowed for treatments to be developed, cavity prevention remains to be the best option.
The Importance of Cavity Prevention
It may be hard to notice tooth decay at first. The symptoms of a cavity include tooth discoloration, sensitivity, pain, and even bad breath. Untreated cavities can lead to a long list of complications. This is true for children who have not gotten their permanent teeth yet. An untreated cavity can lead to:
- Severe pain that interferes with daily living
- Issues with chewing
- Abscesses in the teeth
- Swelling of the gums around the tooth
- Tooth loss
If your cavity causes issues with chewing, this can lead to changes in your dietary habits. This may cause weight loss or poor overall nutrition. Tooth abscesses, although rare, can cause life-threatening infections. Proper cavity prevention can help you avoid all of these issues.
Effective Cavity Prevention
There are several things that you can do to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright. Brushing and flossing regularly are extremely important. Other things you can do include:
- Seeing your dentist regularly
- Rinsing with a mouthwash that contains fluoride
- Avoid frequent snacking
- Avoid sugary drinks such as soda and some juices
- Eat tooth-friendly foods such as fruits and veggies
- Chew sugar-free gum to help remove food particles
- Consider dental sealants for children
Get In Touch with Us for More Information
To learn more about the importance of cavity prevention and what we can do to help, feel free to make an appointment with Central Texas Orthodontics. At our convenient location in Austin, a member of our knowledgeable team would be happy to help you create a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!
