Causes of Decay
We often hear about candy and how it causes decay, also known as cavities. Candy alone, however, does not cause decay, but rather provides fuel for the bacteria that cause dental decay and gum disease.
Bacteria love sugar. When you eat sugar and allow it to remain in your mouth, you are giving bacteria the fuel they need to prosper. As bacteria use the sugar from candy as fuel, they create an acidic bi-product as part of their reproductive process. The acid from bacteria in your mouth can soften your protective enamel, exposing the softer dentin layer of your teeth. When bacteria reach the dentin, it often means trouble and can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
Preventing Decay
By brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, you can reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth, prevent decay, and gum disease. However, brushing and flossing alone is not enough to maintain your oral hygiene. Regular professional dental cleanings by a skilled hygienist reach areas between your teeth and beneath your gum line that your toothbrush and floss alone cannot reach.
Our dental hygienists are extremely gentle and skilled when it comes to taking care of our patients. We never have a one-size-fits-all approach to dental hygiene, but rather, meet you where you are in your health. If you have some catching up to do, we offer mid-level and advanced dental cleanings to help you get back on track with your oral health. If you generally have little plaque and no infection, we offer regular dental maintenance appointments to keep your smile looking and feeling great.
Dental Fillings in Encinitas, CA
Most people will need a filling at some point during their lifetimes. We offer tooth-colored fillings so that your smile can remain beautiful, while still having the protection from a quality restoration.
We take a preventive approach to dental care and look forward to giving you and your family the very best that dentistry has to offer all in a friendly, comfortable environment featuring the latest in technology. Give Scott M. Jordan, DDS a call today.