Dental decay occurs when a person is lax about their oral hygiene. Leftover food debris on enamel provides fuel for bacteria, which produce acids as they feed. These acids break down tooth enamel over time, which is what causes cavities to form.
In the event your dentist detects a cavity in its early stages, fluoride can be used to remedy the dental decay. You probably already know that fluoride is great for preventing cavities, but it can also add lost minerals back to teeth to fortify decaying tooth enamel.
Fluoride treatments are usually available in several distinct forms. Dentists can apply fluoride gel or varnish directly to teeth, or the patient may be asked to swish with a fluoride mouthwash. Keep in mind that these treatments are only effective when cavities are small, otherwise fluoride treatment may not be capable of adding back enough minerals to repair damage to teeth.
When a cavity has gone beyond the point of being repaired with fluoride, dentists can remove the damaged tissue and place a filling to stabilize the tooth. If damage is substantial, a person may also require a crown, which is a dental cap that sits over the existing tooth. When decay runs deep into the tooth enamel, root canals are another option.
While some people are naturally more vulnerable to cavities and decay, good oral care can go a long way towards preventing new cavities. This entails:
Additionally, you must visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning. Dental cleanings are more thorough than just brushing thanks to the tools dentists use to remove plaque and tartar from tooth enamel.