The holiday season is a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness. However, it is also a time of indulgence, sweets, and desserts. Many desserts are laden with sugar, which is bad for your teeth. However, that does not mean that you cannot enjoy these treats. You just need to be careful about how you eat them.

What Are Cavities?

A cavity is a small hole that forms in your tooth enamel. Cavities are formed when plaque – the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth after eating or drinking sweet foods and drinks - is not properly removed through brushing and flossing. If left untreated, the cavity can grow larger, which weakens the tooth overall. Often, cavities are treated with fillings.

At-home dental care is crucial to protect against the development of tooth decay. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste can help prevent decay and keep your mouth healthy. Flossing daily will also help to prevent cavities by removing plaque between teeth as well as around your gums.

If you are due for a dental checkup or are experiencing tooth pain, it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. You may be able to avoid having a filling by having a tooth restored with a crown instead. Dental crowns can help restore a tooth that is badly decayed by covering the affected tooth and strengthening it. Crowns are also helpful in protecting a tooth that has been weakened by a large filling. By covering the entire visible portion of your tooth, the crown helps to restore strength and resilience to the tooth while protecting it from the natural wear and tear that occurs as your bite functions.

In some cases, if a tooth is badly damaged, it is best to have it extracted. If you have more questions about cavities and what you can do to protect your smile this holiday season, ask your dentist during your next checkup appointment!

How Can You Avoid Getting Cavities?

• Eat a soft food diet for the first few days after treatment. Choose soft food such as porridge, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, or ice cream. Avoid hard foods such as nuts, as these could damage the treated tooth.
• Make sure you brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will help keep plaque at bay.
• If you have a dry mouth due to medication, visit your dentist, as this could be causing serious damage to your teeth.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen and protect your teeth further.
• Don’t eat or drink hot food or drinks, as this could cause inflammation of the pulp tissue.
• Visit the dentist for regular checkups to make sure your gums and teeth are healthy. This may help you avoid potential problems with tooth decay or gum disease.

Get the best dental services from the expert team of dental assistants led by Dr. Bipinjit Kaur at Tracy Arch Dental, Tracy, California. For more details and appointments, call us at (209) 820-0789, book online, or visit us at 1920 West Grant Line Road, Tracy, CA 95376.