While they are sometimes confused, tooth decay and cavity are two distinct conditions. Tooth decay occurs when acids created by microorganisms in your mouth break down sugar in your teeth. Untreated mineral loss will eventually lead to a structural hole or hollow. Untreated cavities can become more extensive and eventually damage the tooth.

Plaque acids can eat away at the dentin layer of the tooth. In addition, a root cavity exposes your nerves, causing pain when you drink or eat. If you have discomfort around the root of your tooth, you probably have dental decay and need to see a dentist.

At Martin Dental in Mesa, AZ, we believe that excellent oral hygiene is essential to general health and wellness, including preventing dental cavities. Understand these diseases and how your Mesa affordable dentist can help.

Causes of Tooth Decay and Cavities

Sticky, sugary meals and drinks trigger tooth decay. Sugar increases acid production. This causes enamel degradation. Remember that plaque and sugar are a terrible mix that can cause oral havoc.

If you don't brush your teeth within 20 minutes of eating a sweet treat, they're already damaged. Here are some warning signs your Mesa dental expert can warn you about:

• Poor Oral Hygiene–We can't avoid eating and drinking because we need to survive. But we can brush our teeth routinely. They stay on the teeth till clean. The food particles on your teeth mean more chance of a cavity. Flossing should be part of your regimen to reach between your teeth.
• Dry Mouth–A healthy mouth requires an average amount of saliva. Plaque builds up faster in a dry mouth with minimal saliva.
• Bacteria and Acid–Bacteria naturally inhabit your mouth, despite popular belief. When they combine carbohydrates to generate an acid that erodes teeth, the issue arises.
• Plaque Formation–Plaque is made of food particles, acid, saliva, and bacteria. It sticks to your teeth and accumulates.
• Medical Problems–Acid from the stomach can cause tooth decay. Bulimia promotes acid and tooth decay exposure through frequent vomiting. Also, some cancer types employ radiation to encourage bacterial development, resulting in cavities.

Signs and Symptoms of Dental Decay and Cavities

Cavity symptoms emerge as tooth decay advances. If you detect any symptoms, see your Mesa, AZ dentist right away. The earlier you recognize these indicators, the easier and faster the treatment.

• Pressure - When biting down, increased pain and dental sensitivity can suggest a cavity.
• A toothache is one of the first indicators that a cavity is forming.
• Pus - This is a significant symptom that must be treated right away.
• Pits - A visible pit or hole in the damaged tooth is a cavity warning indicator. Some holes are more challenging to locate and may only be seen on a dental x-ray.

How To Prevent Decay and Cavities with Mesa Dental Expert?

Just like your dentist taught you on your first visit, prevention is the most ideal approach to keep your teeth healthy and free of cavities.

To keep them healthy, establish a thorough oral hygiene program. After a while, it will become second nature, and you will enjoy your lovely grin for a long time. Here is a short checklist of everyday essentials.

• Toothpaste is essential for cavity prevention.
• Toothbrush - Everyone knows the importance of brushing your teeth, but few think about the type you use.
• Dental floss - Dentists stress the importance of flossing.
• Mouthwash - This is the last step in daily oral hygiene.

It is easy to determine the extent of your decay or potential cavity. If you want to find out more, Contact Martin Dental for expert dental care. Alternatively, you can fill in the quick form for a fast response from the team. Please read what others have to say about our services.