“No cavities, Mom!”
That happy moment is music to any parent’s ears when they find out that their children’s dental checkup was a success. But it’s not just children who are happy to hear that. It’s any dental care patient who walks into an appointment wondering: “Are my teeth healthy?” Does my toothache mean I have a cavity?”
That uneasy feeling happens to every patient who sees their dentist. And no patient wants to hear the bad news.
Whether you have them or not, there are some important facts to know about cavities:
- Cavities are common. Over fifty percent (50%) of children have had cavities in their baby teeth. Ninety percent (90%) of adults over twenty years old have had at least one cavity. This is because it is not hard to get cavities. Regular dental checkups can help cavities from getting worse. ***
- Cavities are there forever. Cavities cannot be removed once they have formed on your teeth. This occurs because germs form on the teeth, these germs secrete acid which eats away at the enamel. The acid forms holes in the tooth. This cannot be cured but it can be treated.
- Failure to get treatment may mean losing a tooth. Black spots or discoloration on your teeth may indicate that you have cavities. You should see a dentist to have it examined because if left untreated, it can lead to other dental issues as bacteria can form under the gum line.
- Cavities can be treated to prevent further problems. However, your dentist has a number of treatments that can stop further decay. When tooth decay begins, fluoride toothpaste for remineralization treatments may stop the tooth from further deteriorating. You may need to get a crown, tooth filling, or root canal. Consult your dentist for the best course of treatment.
- Remember, larger cavities mean larger fillings. Larger fillings can cause more sensitivity and require more treatment. Smaller cavities are treated more predictably, with fewer side effects. Your dentist and hygienist can help you detect decay in their earlier stages and help plan what course of action to take.
Once you have been successfully treated for cavities, do preventative care at home. Here are some things you can do that will help prevent future cavities:
- Brush and floss your teeth two to three times daily, after breakfast or dinner for at least two minutes.
- See your dentist twice a year for cleanings.
- Get regular dental checkups.
- Eat a healthy diet with very few processed foods.
- Stay nicely hydrated with water throughout the day.
- Consult your dentist or hygienist for a customized plan.
All Smiles Bethesda has experienced dentists and dental hygienists who can take care of your teeth and answer any of your questions. We would like to help you maintain your teeth and treat dental issues at their beginning stages versus their advanced stages. If you would like to schedule an appointment for you or your family, please call us at 301-984-9646 email us at info@allsmilesbethesda.com or lorraine@allsmilesbethesda.com.
We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring, and the Washington, DC area.
*** For more information on cavities, visit the ADA website.