Cavities and tooth decays are dental problems caused by excessive consumption of sugar and carbohydrate-rich foods. Such foods feed the bacteria in dental plaque. Certain acids are produced by the bacteria that weaken the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay. To remove those bacteria, brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental visits, are important. Reducing sugar intake, using fluoride toothpaste, and drinking fluoridated water can help prevent tooth decay and cavities. If you are experiencing tooth decay or cavities, visit a dentist in Los Gatos, CA.

How to treat tooth decay and prevent cavities

To treat tooth decay, it is best to visit a dentist. Your dentist will recommend the following treatments as per your condition.

• Fillings

It is one of the most common methods to treat tooth decay. It involves removing the decayed area and replacing them with a filling material such as silver amalgam, composite resin, or glass ionomer. 

• Root canal treatment

In root canal treatment, tooth decay is treated and saved a tooth that is badly infected or decayed. This process involves removing the infected pulp within a tooth to save it from extraction.

• Extraction

Extraction is done to remove the severely decayed tooth. It is the last resort for treating tooth decay. It is generally used when other treatments are unsuccessful in restoring the tooth.

• Fluoride treatments

Fluoride gel or varnish can help prevent further decay and strengthen existing teeth.

To prevent cavities, follow the methods mentioned below.

• Brushing

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is the first step in preventing tooth cavities. Proper brushing removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque produces acids that cause cavities and damage other teeth. You can consider switching to electric brushes from traditional ones for better cleaning of your teeth. 

• Flossing

Just like brushing, flossing is also an important part of oral hygiene that we should include in our daily routine. Flossing helps remove plaque and food debris that is stuck between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. 

• Eating a healthy diet.

Eating lots of vegetables and fruits, limiting sugary snacks and drinks, and avoiding sticky and starchy snacks that increase the chances of forming cavities. 

• Avoid eating snacks frequently.

Eating snacks frequently throughout the day can increase the chances of forming cavities as your teeth are exposed to sugar and acid frequently. 

• Visit your dentist regularly.

Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help identify cavities before they become a problem.