How Can I Prevent A Cavity?

A cavity is caused by specific types of bacteria. They produce acid that destroys the tooth's enamel and the layer under it, the dentin.

The bacteria turn sugar and carbohydrates (starches) in the foods we eat into acids. The acids dissolve minerals in the hard enamel that covers the tooth's crown (the part you can see). The enamel erodes or develops pits. They are too small to see at first. But they get larger over time.

All sugars are not created equally. Simple sugars like high sucrose corn syrup are easily metabolized by bacteria. Complex starchy sugars are not. Frequent snacks with sticky sugars that hang in your mouth for hours or beverages like fruit juice, sugar soda pop and coffee are great food sources for cavity producing bacteria.

Acid also can seep through pores in the enamel. This is how decay begins in the softer dentin layer, the main body of the tooth. As the dentin and enamel break down, a cavity is created.

Saliva kills the bacteria, but more importantly it is itself an acid buffer. Saliva has the ability to keep bacteria-produced acid from achieving a pH strong enough to dissolve tooth structure. There is a finite ability for your saliva to do this. That is why snacking in-between meals is so bad. It takes time for your saliva to “re-charge” its buffering capacity.

Prevention

One way you can prevent cavities is by reducing the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth. The best way to do this is by brushing and flossing daily. You also can use antibacterial mouth rinses to reduce the levels of bacteria that cause cavities.

A balanced diet with whole fruits and vegetables limits cavities. Don't make a habit of having frequent sugary snacks, including hard candy and other snacks that contain sugar.

Water is by far the healthiest drink available. Drinking water really helps your teeth stay healthy – especially if it’s fluoridated.

Chewing gum that contains xylitol helps to decrease bacterial growth. Unlike sugar, xylitol is not a food source for bacteria. Look for sugarless gums that have the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Going to your dentist in Evansville, IN is one of the best ways to prevent cavities. At your visit, your dentist will take X-rays and examine your entire mouth. There are some cavity-fighting treatments available at your dentist's office. They include cleanings and dental sealants. Dental cleanings keep your teeth in pristine condition by removing plaque and tartar buildup. You may also want to discuss with your dentist whether you should use supplemental fluoride to strengthen your teeth.