Prevention and Cure for Cavities

Children can suffer from cavities even when their teeth are at the earliest stages of development. At such stages, the tooth enamel covering the deciduous components of the teeth is so thin that acids formed by the enzymes excreted by bacteria can easily corrode the enamel. The same process happens in old people who have teeth damaged by years of grinding and chewing. Their teeth’s enamel loses the capability to protect the teeth’s inner layer from being penetrated by bacteria.

Cavities are caused by the corrosion of the teeth due to various acids such as lactic acid. The bacteria forming from the food particles stuck in between or on the surface of the teeth release an enzyme that turns into acid when combined with sugar. This acid slowly corrodes the teeth’s surface and digs a channel for the bacteria to penetrate even the dentin layer of the teeth. Cavities are characterized by the appearance of dark stains on the teeth.

Dentists in large cities like Atlanta, particularly in places like Buckhead, normally diagnose the presence of cavities on young and old patients. There are many factors that can explain the common occurrence of cavities in young children and adults, and all these factors can be prevented.

Cleaning the teeth actually does not directly protect the teeth from cavities. Regular brushing and flossing removes the food particles that can lead to bacterial buildup but cannot possibly prevent bacteria from releasing harmful enzymes. Most dentists, like any dentist Buckhead is home to, say that the fighting agent against bacterial buildup is the fluoride content in toothpaste.

Fluoride is naturally present on the surface of the teeth. However, its amount is insufficient in providing the protection that the teeth need against bacteria. Many a dentist in Atlanta say that fluoride-containing substances should be taken so that the teeth can be remineralized after being frequently washed by water.

Brushing with toothpaste prevents the development of dental cavities. However, when cavities bore holes on the teeth, an amalgam can be used to close the hole and prevent the further development of cavities. A dentist in Atlanta can offer a restorative solution using composite resin, a crown, or a veneer. Any of these materials can restore the protective layer of the teeth.