A cavity is a hole in a tooth that indicates permanent damage. Also known as dental caries, cavities can grow bigger and result in infection, pain, and tooth loss.
At Queensboro Plaza Dental Care, your family dentist in Long Island City, NY, we educate our patients about how to prevent dental disease, including decay and cavities. In addition to providing our preventive dentistry services, this includes teaching superb oral health habits at home, such as daily brushing and flossing.
Bacteria
Bacteria is the leading cause of cavities. You feed bacteria in your mouth whenever you consume foods and drinks that contain sugar or carbohydrates (an important macronutrient that breaks down into sugars). As the bacteria devour your dietary sugars, they produce an acidic waste that weakens the enamel of your teeth. This occurs through demineralization, which is the stripping away of the enamel’s minerals. If the enamel is not sufficiently fortified through remineralization, it will become permanently damaged and result in a cavity.
How to Prevent Cavities
Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. This will allow you to produce saliva, your mouth’s natural rinse. Saliva is also critical for effective remineralization. It deposits essential minerals, such as fluoride and calcium, onto your enamel for absorption.
Consume sugary treats and acidic foods and beverages in moderation. For example, chronic consumption of coffee, orange juice, and soda can weaken your enamel.
Additionally, brush your teeth morning and night for a full two minutes each time, floss every day, and visit our friendly team every six months at Queensboro Plaza Dental Care for routine cleanings and checkups. Certain patients may benefit from more frequent appointments. We’ll let you know if this applies to you!
Schedule Your Next Dental Visit!
If it’s been more than six months since your last dental cleaning and checkup, contact us today to schedule a visit to Queensboro Plaza Dental Care in Long Island City, NY. We offer comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages, including children.
