Cavities are caused by tooth decay, a process resulting from acids in your teeth being held in place long enough to damage your tooth enamel. These acids act on your teeth through plaque, a biofilm containing bacteria. Failure to properly remove plaque results in the development of tartar, which can ultimately cause tooth decay.
Preventing Cavities
Your best defense against the causes of cavities is a good at-home oral hygiene routine. Our general dentist recommends that you brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once daily. These steps will help reduce plaque and also remove food particles from on top of and in between your teeth.
The most harmful acids produced by plaque are those from sugary foods and drinks. Minimizing your intake of sugary foods can also play a key role in reducing your risk for cavities.
Your at-home routine needs to be complemented by biannual visits to our Calgary dental office for regular tooth cleanings and examinations. During these cleanings, plaque and tartar will be completely removed, helping prevent cavities from forming.
Your examination will include the detection of any cavities that have developed in between your visits. Once detected, our dentists can provide an effective treatment to seal the cavity and reduce your risk of other issues that can result from untreated tooth decay. Taking time to visit our office every six months is essential in preventing cavities.
If you are overdue for your semi-annual dental cleaning and examination or believe tooth decay is causing you to experience pain, please contact Aesthetic Dental Studio today by dialing 403-543-4600 or completing our online form. Patients throughout Alberta are welcome at our office in Calgary.