Can I Stop A Cavity From Getting Worse?

If you have a cavity, you are likely wondering whether it needs to be tended to right away, whether it will get worse, if it will stagnate or possibly even improve the condition. A cavity is a tiny hole in the tooth that gradually expands as time progresses. This form of decay occurs when acid consumes the protective enamel on the teeth. As soon as the enamel is removed, the cavity will gradually eat the tooth until it hits the blood vessels and nerves in the tooth. You have the power to mitigate the cavity's expansion and resulting pain, discoloration and odor.

Here is a look at how you can stop your cavity from getting worse.

Brush the Tooth With Care

Brushing is essential to preventing your cavity from worsening. Brushing will also help prevent the formation of even more cavities. Zero in on the cavity as you brush to eliminate any remaining food particles from your snack or meal. This thorough brushing can help hinder the cavity's progression.

Hydration Will Help Prevent the Cavity From Worsening

An overly-dry mouth will permit the accumulation of bacteria that cause cavities. Consuming an abundance of water will keep your mouth moist and help thwart the cavity's progression.

A Fluoride Treatment Will Mitigate the Cavity’s Progression

Fluoride really can prevent bacteria from multiplying within the mouth. Fluoride remineralizes enamel to make teeth as strong as possible. Such fortified teeth are that much more resistant to cavities. In some cases, pinpointing a cavity in the early stages and applying a fluoride treatment will reverse the decay. Speak with our dentist about fluoride treatments to find out more about this approach to combating cavity progression.

Saltwater Rinses Might Help

Saltwater has antiseptic properties. Oral health professionals often recommend patients use saltwater when a wound or infection is present in the mouth. Saltwater can even destroy bacteria that leads to the formation of cavities. Swish with salt water as soon as you find out you have a cavity and it just might slow its expansion.

The Role of Xylitol Gum in Preventing Cavities From Worsening

Gum with Xylitol does all sorts of good things for your mouth. Xylitol is a natural alcohol that helps destroy bacteria and ward off infections. Chew Xylitol gum following snacks and meals to help prevent the cavity from worsening.

Avoid Refined Sugar to Prevent Your Cavity From Worsening

The worst thing you can do to your cavity faces exposure to acid. Do not consume sugary beverages or foods after you find out you have a cavity. Cavities that result from acid-generating bacteria will only continue to expand if surrounded by the acid in sugar.

If you have a craving for something sugary, rinse out your mouth with water immediately after indulging. When possible, clean your teeth with floss and toothpaste to prevent the cavity from worsening.

Why does this all matter?

Request a dental appointment here: https://clarisseatakhaniandds.com or call Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. at (818) 483-9071 for an appointment in our Glendale dental office.

Recent Posts

Picking A Toothbrush And Toothpaste: What Are The Alternatives?

When picking a toothbrush and toothpaste, there are many things that should be considered. Some people might even find themselves wondering if using a toothbrush with toothpaste does much more than other alternatives.The reality is: Toothpaste is an essential part of good oral hygiene. A quality toothpaste does a better job than other alternatives, like…

5 Reasons Your Dental Health Is Vital

Overstating the importance of dental health is impossible. The state of a person's mouth is directly linked to their overall well-being. The mouth is just another part of the body, so keeping it healthy promotes good health in other areas.Here are five reasons why making oral health a priority is essential:People dealing with gum disease…

Signs Of Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene manifests in a number of different forms. From bleeding or swelling gums to toothaches, growths in the mouth and alterations to the tongue's surface, poor oral hygiene has plenty of forms. Some patients exhibit several common indications of poor oral hygiene. Here is a look at some of the most common signs…

Why Do I Have Sensitive Teeth?

If you are currently suffering from having sensitive teeth, know that you are definitely not alone. Many dental patients claim they experience tooth sensitivity at least one time in their lives, with much more claiming that they experience it often. The term sensitive may seem like an understatement if your tooth sensitivity involves pain. Most…


Dr. Clarisse Atakhanian

Share
Published by
Dr. Clarisse Atakhanian

Recent Posts

When You Should Consider Visiting an Emergency Dentist

No one can predict when an accident might threaten their oral health. However, with an…

2 days ago

Popularity and Availability of CEREC Crowns

If you want to find out more about the availability and popularity of CEREC crowns,…

1 month ago

When Should a Child See a Family Dentist?

Dental professionals recommend that a child should visit the dentist within six months after teething…

2 months ago

Invisalign® vs. Veneers

Understanding the pros and cons of Invisalign® and veneers is an important first step to…

3 months ago

Preventive Dentistry Tips: Choosing the Right Toothpaste

There is a type of toothpaste for every person. If you want to enhance your…

4 months ago

A Dentist Explains the Importance of a Tooth Extraction

Let’s discuss possible reasons for needing a tooth removed, the downsides of not getting an…

5 months ago