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1. INTRODUCTION
Maintaining the health of your mouth is essential to your general well-being. One of the biggest threats to your oral health is tooth decay, also known as cavities. Cavities are very common, but the good news is that they can be prevented and treated with the right care and habits.
If you’re looking to avoid cavities in Locust, NC, dentists like Dr. Wael Zeitouni and Dr. Enes Maxhuni offer expert guidance and treatments to help you maintain a healthy smile.
2. WHAT ARE CAVITIES?
Cavities, also called dental caries, are holes or damaged areas in your teeth caused by tooth decay. They happen when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up on your teeth and produces acid. While maintaining good oral hygiene is key to prevention, those considering orthodontic treatments often ask about Invisalign cost as part of their overall dental care plan. This acid slowly breaks down the enamel, which is the outer layer of your teeth, leading to cavities over time.
3. SIGNS THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE A CAVITY
It’s important to spot cavities early so they don’t get worse. Here are some common signs to look for:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Feeling discomfort when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet, or sour can be a sign of early tooth decay.
- Spots or Discoloration: White, brown, or black spots on your teeth may show the beginning stages of a cavity.
- Toothache or Pain When Chewing: If your tooth hurts when you bite down or chew food, it could be a sign of a deeper cavity or nerve damage.
4. HOW TO PREVENT CAVITIES?
You can avoid cavities by following good oral hygiene practices and making healthy choices every day. Here’s what you should do:
- Brush and Floss Daily
- Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once a day to remove food and plaque between your teeth.
- Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods
- Try to reduce sugary snacks and drinks. Instead, eat more fruits, vegetables, dairy, and other foods that are good for your teeth.
- Get Fluoride Treatments and Sealants
- Fluoride strengthens your teeth, making them more resistant to decay. Cavities can also be avoided with sealants, which are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly
- Early cavity detection depends on routine dental checkups. Professional cleanings and check-ups help keep your mouth healthy and allow dentists to give you personalized tips.
5. HOW CAVITIES ARE TREATED?
If you already have a cavity, don’t worry—there are effective treatments available. Dentists usually remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill it with a dental filling. In more serious cases, you might need a crown, root canal, or even tooth extraction.
At Locust Family Dentistry, treating cavities is one of their specialties. Whether it’s early decay or advanced damage, they provide the right treatment based on your tooth’s condition.
6. CONCLUSION
Cavities are common but preventable. With daily care, smart food choices, and regular dentist visits, you can protect your smile and avoid tooth problems in the future.
