We are rolling into the holiday season, which means there is an influx of candy and sweets all around us. More sweets may mean more cavities if patients don’t take the proper precautions when it comes to maintaining optimal oral health. At Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely, & Associates, our team of highly trained dentists helps patients achieve a healthy smile through preventive dental care and patient education. Patients can minimize their chance of developing dental issues like cavities with practicing a proper at-home oral hygiene routine and schedule biannual visits to our Annapolis, MD dental office. If you want to schedule a preventive care exam, contact our Annapolis dental office.
How Do Cavities Develop
Cavities occur when sugar and starch mix with bacteria in your mouth, causing an acid to form that attack the tooth enamel. The tooth will begin to decay and eventually turn into a cavity if it is not properly treated in its earlier stage. Patients with gum disease may also be more susceptible to developing cavities. When the gums pull away from the teeth, they create pockets where bacteria can develop and may leave you more prone to cavities if you don’t clean your teeth properly.
It is important to note that some patients with cavities may not experience any symptoms; while other patients may experience these onsets of symptoms:
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pits or holes in the teeth
- Tooth discoloration
Treating Cavities
Practicing a proper oral hygiene routine at home can help keep your teeth healthy and minimize your chance of developing cavities. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day, use a fluoride mouthwash, and schedule preventive care visits to our Annapolis dental office. Preventive care visits allow our dentists to properly exam your mouth, teeth, and gums to check for any signs of complex dental problems like gum disease or tooth decay. With the result of your comprehensive exam, we are able to develop a treatment plan specific to your dental needs.
