Causes of Tooth Decay
Everyone knows what cavities are, but do you really know what causes them? When we are children, we are told that ìsweetsî give us cavities, but is this really true? Are there ways to prevent cavities from forming? Our Los Angeles dentist wants you to have the facts about tooth decay so that you can make good decisions about your oral care and prevent cavities from forming.
Tooth decay is actually a relatively simple process. When certain sugars, such as those contained in sweet or starchy foods, enter the mouth, they are broken down almost immediately by saliva. This allows the body to get plenty of energy quickly. However, some of the residue of these sugars may not be swallowed, and may stay on the teeth, forming a sticky substance called ìplaque.î From this plaque, bacteria can grow quickly, releasing acid as part of their development and causing small holes in the surface of tooth enamel.
During a regular dental exam, our dentist will look for tell-tale signs of pitting or holes in your tooth enamel. This lets the dentist know that you are faced with the possibility of tooth decay. Professional dental cleanings every six months is one of the best ways to prevent decay, but of course you must also brush and floss regularly at home. Avoiding sugary or starchy foods is another way to help prevent tooth decay.
Our cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles is ready to work with you to prevent decay from occurring in your mouth. Contact our office today for a consultation and a professional dental exam.