Tooth Decay
Tooth decay
Tooth decay happens when acids wear away the tooth's hard surface layer, called enamel. These acids are made by a sticky film called plaque.
Plaque build-up on teeth has germs that feed on sugary foods. The process of digesting these sugars makes acids that attack tooth surfaces.
Over a period of time, tooth decay can cause holes in the tooth surface. These are called tooth cavities. If left untreated, cavities can get bigger. They can even destroy the tooth.
There are different stages of tooth decay
First Stage - The dull spot on the tooth's surface may be decay. Brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing may prevent it from becoming a tooth cavity.
Second Stage - The tooth decay is now a cavity. It has gone through the tooth's hard surface layer.
Third Stage - Now that the tooth decay has reached the softer layer of the tooth, it will get bigger faster.
Fourth Stage - If the cavity is not filled, it can cause bigger problems deeper in the tooth.
Here are some tips to help prevent tooth decay:
Avoid eating a lot of sugary foods. Cut down on snacks between meals. This will help prevent plaque from making acid. It will also reduce the number of times your teeth are exposed to acids.
Eat a diet high in calcium. Calcium helps strengthen tooth surfaces.Drink plenty of water, especially if you take certain medicines. Some medicines can decrease the amount of saliva your body makes.
Use a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride. Fluoride helps make tooth surfaces harder and stronger
Visit your dental team at least twice a year.
Visit Dr Lisa Fernandes, over 20 years of experience in Dentistry at Lake Panorama Dental situated at 22 Lake Panorama Drive Henderson Heights for a free check up/consultation with quote and 20% of all Dental Treatments including X Rays until 30.11.2019.
We are open Mondays to Saturdays with plenty of free on street parking.
Phone 09 2186000 or text 0211363444
Website: www.lakepanoramadental.co.nz...
Email: info@lakepanoramadental.co.nz
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