How to Prevent Cavities

Cavities are small in size but can cause big problems. In the form of little holes in your teeth, they develop when acid attacks your tooth enamel, the essential protective covering for your teeth. The acid may come either from your diet or certain oral bacteria that flourish when poor oral hygiene is present. If a cavity is not treated as soon as possible, the bacteria have the opportunity to move further into your tooth, affecting even the root. You may end up needing a root canal or losing teeth altogether.

If you want your teeth to last a lifetime, the prevention of cavities is rather simple: brush and floss every day, pay attention to your diet, and see your dentist regularly. An alternative option is dental sealants, which are thin coatings your dentist paints on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They can prevent cavities for many years.

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing

It always goes back to the basics. If you invest your time into a good oral hygiene routine, cavity prevention is almost guaranteed. It is recommended to brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day, every day. This helps to remove food particles and harmful bacteria that stick in and around your teeth. Flossing reaches the nooks and crannies that your toothbrush is unable to reach. Be sure to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this mineral can help prevent and repair cavities that are in their early stages.

Diet Impacts Dental Health

There are certain foods and beverages, while they may taste good, are incredibly damaging to your teeth. For example, soda, sports drinks, fruit juice, and energy drinks (even the sugar-free ones) contain acids that attack your tooth enamel, ultimately eroding it and making your teeth more susceptible to decay. The best alternative is to drink fluoride-containing water, as it lacks acidic properties and helps replenish your saliva. Foods like cookies, candy, donuts, and chips are also damaging to your teeth, especially if the remaining food particles are not removed through brushing and flossing. These sugary and starchy foods nourish the oral bacteria that create cavities, raising the acidity level in your mouth.

Checkups and Professional Cleanings

It is recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and professional cleanings. Your dentist will take a look to see if you have any early signs of a problem developing inside your mouth and take swift action if there is. Your dental hygienist is able to clear away debris in your mouth that you can’t reach with a toothbrush or even floss. Alongside your dental team, you will be able to combat any early signs of decay or disease that comes your way.

Sealants

A dental sealant is a clear, protective coating applied by your dentist to prevent cavities from forming or stopping minor decay from developing further. Sealants act as a barrier between acid-producing bacteria and the grooves and crevices of teeth’s chewing surfaces. While sealants can be used on adults, children, especially those who have their permanent teeth, gain the most benefit from dental sealants. Children with sealants are up to three times less likely to develop cavities than those without. Of course, sealants don’t replace good home hygiene, so be sure your child still brushes twice a day and flosses at least once per day.

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What Our Clients Say About Us

    From start to finish, a great experience! Nice clean office. The front desk staff was friendly, on the way in & on the way out. My hygienist was absolutely amazing, she was sweet and gentle, she asked questions, and gave advice. Dr Wanat was professional and let me know what was necessary and didn’t try to have me come in for a bunch of unnecessary work, I was extremely pleased with my visit as a new patient.

    Jamie Rosen

    I am 71 years old and I have been to many different dentists over the years. Dr. Wanat is kind, compassionate and gentle. I would highly recommend him for your dental care. Maria is also kind, compassionate and gentle. They went above and beyond to accommodate my needs. They were a blessing to me!

    Deborah Nixon

    I am a new patient this week. I was pleasantly greeted and all the staff were very friendly. They were all exceptional in explaining my care. Dr. Wanat was also excellent explaining my options for a dental care plan. I had all my x-rays and a cleaning today. I look forward to begin next week starting the plan we have in place.

    Robert Harris

    My husband and I both very happy with this dentist. All of the young ladies that work there are super. They know their job and make you feel special. Dr. Want does not do any procedure that is not needed. He is the best dentist I have ever had!!!

    Anita Gray

    The dental hygienist Amber was very attentive and caring during my initial visit. She was also very proficient with reviewing my x-rays and providing both helpful and practical feedback/recommendations for ways to improve my dental cleaning routine at home. Dr. Wanat was friendly and honest, and he seemed genuinely invested in addressing my concerns. He and Amber also thoroughly explained the plans for my future visits. The office manager was very friendly and accommodating with scheduling as well.

    Jennifer Lassonde