Tag: Preventing Cavities

Tips on preventing cavities in children: Good dental health is important for every family member, especially your children. At Dental Express, we encourage patients to schedule their child’s first dental visit before they turn one. After that initial visit, we recommend they visit any of our San Diego, CA offices at least twice a year for routine dental cleanings and regular exams. Our goal is to give you and your family a relaxing and professional dental experience. At Dental Express, our pediatric dentistry services set your child up for oral health success by teaching them oral hygiene tips early.

What’s a cavity?

A cavity develops when tooth decay develops and teeth breaking off. It is a hole that will grow bigger and deeper when left untreated. Tooth decay occurs on the enamel and the dentin, located under the enamel. When food is left on the surface and between teeth, bacteria form plaque, which dissolves the enamel and creates these holes. At Dental Express, we can help remedy cavities and provide tooth-colored fillings.

Signs of a cavity

There are many signs of a cavity found in our San Diego patients. Some of the most common symptoms of tooth decay can include:

• White spots on the teeth in children

• Hot or cold sensitivity

• Toothache

• Pain when eating or drinking

• Staining on the surface of the tooth

• Pain when biting or chewing

If you suspect that your child has a cavity, it’s important to schedule an appointment at one of the San Diego offices of Dental Express as soon as possible. The longer that you wait to treat the cavity, the more serious it can become.

Who is most at risk for cavities?

There are many risk factors for developing cavities or tooth decay, which include:

• A diet that is high in sugars and starches

• Poor oral hygiene routine

• Water supply with little or no fluoride

• High levels of bacteria left in the mouth

• Lower than normal saliva flow

It’s important to treat cavities quickly, as they can get large and affect the deep layers of the teeth and the potential need for a root canal cracked tooth. Untreated cavities can cause severe pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Regular dental visits and an effective oral hygiene routine at home for both children and adults can help protect against tooth decay.

How to treat a cavity

During a dental exam at Dental Express, we can learn about your medical history, do a full dental exam of your teeth and gums, and perform an oral cancer screening. If we see tooth decay or detect cavities, we will numb the area and remove the decay. Next, we will disinfect the tooth and fill it with a composite resin material, and set it. The process is completed with polish.

Tips For Preventing Cavities in Children and Adults

Preventing tooth decay and cavities in children is our goal at Dental Express. One of the easiest ways to protect your children’s oral health is to start brushing their teeth as soon as they have their first tooth. As your child’s permanent teeth erupt, our professional team can help prevent decay by applying dental sealants once molars come in.

In terms of oral hygiene, brush their teeth, tongue, and gums at least twice a day. After the age of two, it’s important to floss your child’s teeth daily. If your child uses a bottle while going to bed, only put water in it as juice contains sugar that can lead to tooth decay. Ultimately, the best way to prevent cavities is to schedule routine dental cleanings and regular dental exams for your child at least twice a year.

Contact Dental Express for pediatric dentistry services in San Diego, CA

It’s important to understand what you can do to prevent cavities in your children and essentially, your whole family. When your family members suspect that you have a cavity, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible at our San Diego office. At Dental Express, we are committed to helping you and your children to maintain their oral health with Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry treatments. We are available to restore your oral health and to eliminate any dental pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.