Why Do We Get Cavities

Why Do We Get Cavities

Everything You Need To Know About Cavities

Dental cavities are a common problem that can affect people of all ages. cavities form when acid in the mouth erodes tooth enamel, and if left untreated, they can lead to toothaches, infection and tooth extractions. Proper dental care is the best way to prevent cavities. This includes brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups. If you do get a cavity, it can be treated with a filling. Fillings are made of different materials, including metals, porcelain and composite resin. The type of filling your dentist recommends will depend on the size and location of the cavity. In some cases, a crown may be needed to cover and protect a tooth that has a large cavity. Cavities are a serious problem, but they don’t have to be permanent. With proper dental care and treatment at Kissing Camel Family Dentistry, you can keep your smile healthy for life.

Reasons Cavities Happen

The mouth is full of bacteria. Some of these bacteria are good for the teeth and gums, while other types can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. The bacteria that cause these problems feed on sugary, starchy foods and drinks (fruit, candy, bread, cereal, sodas, juice and milk). When these carbohydrates are broken down by the bacteria, they release acids. These acid mix with saliva and food particles to form plaque, a sticky substance that coats the teeth. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can start to dissolve the enamel of the teeth, leading to cavities.

Over time, cavities can become larger and deeper, causing serious damage to the teeth. Thus, it is important to take care of your mouth by brushing, flossing regularly and avoiding sugary foods and drinks. If you think you have a cavity contact the best dentist in Colorado Springs CO.

Not Flossing Correctly

Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, as it helps to remove plaque and food particles from areas that the toothbrush cannot reach. When flossing, be sure to run the floss up and down between each gap, using it as a tool to squeegee both sides of the teeth. Our friends at Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Pinellas Park FL, say for best results, floss as many teeth as possible on a daily basis. In addition to flossing, another way to keep your mouth clean and free of bad breath is to brush your tongue on a daily basis. This will help to remove bacteria and other debris that can cause an unpleasant odor. Tongue cleaners can also be used for this purpose. When you follow these simple tips, you can maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy fresh breath all day long.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry!

If you’re looking for top-notch family dentistry, look no further than Kissing Camel Family Dentistry. Our talented and experienced staff provides a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of patients of all ages, from preventive care and routine cleanings to complex restorative procedures. We take a personal interest in each of our patients and work hard to ensure that their experience with us is positive and comfortable. In addition, we offer convenient appointment times and special options for new patients. So if you’re looking for quality dental care for your whole family, contact Kissing Camel Family Dentistry today. We’ll be happy to help you achieve and maintain good oral health!

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month 2021

Happy National Dental Hygiene Month! That’s right, all October long, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is celebrating your dental hygiene. Why, you may ask? Proper oral hygiene habits and professional routine cleanings are key to avoiding dental issues. Small dental problems such as cavities can quickly escalate into dental emergencies. To avoid the pain and the cost of these dental problems, Dr. Boals, our Colorado Springs Dentist, recommends incorporating the following tips into your daily routine. 

Dental Hygiene Tip: Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes is the first step to good dental hygiene. There are a few things to consider before brushing your teeth. Do you have the right toothbrush and toothpaste? Yes, these things do play a role in your oral health. It’s important to use the correct size toothbrush. Using a kid’s toothbrush as an adult wouldn’t do you any good. Dr. Boals says that you should be able to brush one to two teeth at a time. Don’t forget to switch out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. He also recommends finding a toothbrush that has soft bristles. You could irritate your gums if the bristles are too rough. Most family dentists in Colorado Springs recommends brushing your teeth with toothpaste that is ADA approved.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Floss Daily

Flossing should be done on a daily basis. Many dentists say that if you’re not flossing, you might as well not brush your teeth. That’s because 40% of your teeth are not properly cleaned and, as a result, cavities and tartar form. Over time, this will lead to gum disease and other dental problems. Avoid dental issues and floss at least once a day!

How to Floss: 

  1. Wrap about 18 inches of dental floss around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  2. Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, insert the floss between two teeth.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth. Try to avoid hitting your gums. 
  4. Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  5. Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above until you’ve flossed between all your teeth.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Rinse With Mouthwash

Mouthwash can help you fight against bad breath, plaque, cavities, and yellow-teeth. Consider it as your secret weapon. When shopping around for mouthwash, you may be overwhelmed by how many different types are available. Try to find a mouthwash that will help you achieve your dental hygiene goals. Dr. Boals recommends using an ADA approved mouthwash that has some fluoride. Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, points out that not every mouthwash is used the same way, so read the directions carefully.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Did you know that there are many benefits to chewing sugar-free gum after a meal? Patients are often surprised when they hear their hygienists recommend it. Sugar-free gum naturally helps produce more saliva in the mouth. Therefore, it washes away food particles and harmful bacteria. Those suffering from dry mouth can benefit from chewing sugar-free gum regularly. Some popular sugar-free gum brands are Orbit and Trident. 

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month With Kissing Camels

As you can see, practicing good dental hygiene is very important. Implementing these habits every day will help you keep your smile happy and healthy for life. If you haven’t seen Dr. Boals for your routine check-up and cleaning, please contact our office. If you’re looking for a family dentist in West Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Centennial, or Fillmore, we’d be happy to see you! 

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.