Understanding Cavities

You know, of course, that you should take good care of your teeth so that you won’t get cavities, but what do you actually know about cavities? They don’t always have symptoms, so are they really that big of a deal? The truth is, cavities should be taken seriously, because they are permanently damaged areas of your teeth. Understanding cavities can help you avoid them, for a healthier mouth and body.

• What, exactly, are cavities? Cavities are areas of your teeth that have been permanently damaged by decay.
• What causes cavities? A variety of things contribute to cavities, but ultimately, they’re caused by germs. The germs that cause cavities are infectious and can be spread by sharing food, utensils, or by kissing. Sugar plays a big role in the formation of cavities; sugary food feeds the bacteria in your mouth, forming acids that eat away at your teeth. Germs then get into the holes worn into your teeth, causing cavities. The sugars that impact your teeth don’t just come from candy and soda, but also from high-carb foods and sticky foods. If you’re going to snack, it’s best to choose fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts, and drink water.
• Do adults get cavities? You may associate cavities with childhood, but in fact, there are no age restrictions on tooth decay. In fact, cavities can happen as early as the first tooth, and you can get them throughout your life.
• Do cavities hurt? In the beginning stages of a cavity, people often have no symptoms. If it goes untreated, though, it can cause pain and tooth sensitivity.
• Is it really necessary to fix a cavity that doesn’t hurt? Absolutely! If cavities are not treated, they can affect deeper layers of your teeth, causing severe pain, infection, and tooth loss. It’s far better to treat a cavity early than to require a root canal later.
• What can you do to prevent cavities? Eat a healthy diet, steering clear of sugary foods and beverages, and loading up on fruits and vegetables. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and finishing off with an antibacterial rinse. It’s also extremely important to see your dentist every six months, for a checkup and a cleaning.

At Glenwood Premier Dental, we believe that a healthy, confident smile is an important part of a happy and healthy lifestyle. Our staff of caring professionals is committed to offering a wide range of dental services, exceeding our patients’ expectations, and providing the best possible service. We offer dental exams and teeth cleanings, implant dentistry, Invisalign, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, veneers, and more, using state of the art technology in a comfortable and friendly environment. If you’re looking for dental care in Hazlet, contact us through our website or call 732.264.4477 for more information.