Questions about cavities:

Does Sugar cause cavities? 

Bacteria causes cavities. When you eat carbohydrates, the bacteria in your mouth also eats them. Acid is the by-product of bacteria eating the carbs left on your teeth. 

Over time the acid penetrates the outer enamel of your teeth. Once this process starts, it can’t be reversed. Saliva and fluoride can help the tooth structure before a cavity turns into a large one. The only way to fix a cavity once it has started is to see your dentist for a filling. 

Will eating less meals prevent cavities? 

It is best to limit continual snacking. If you eat a carbohydrate-rich diet you should try and only eat at meal times. Water is recommended throughout the day instead of coffee, tea, soda or sports drinks which have added sugar or milk.

Do all fillings need to be replaced at some point? 

Fillings only need to be replaced if they break, leak or if a cavity forms around them. How long your fillings last, depends on your oral hygiene habits, and other oral factors such as if you grind your teeth or clench them. Daily brushing and flossing may help prevent the need to have your fillings replaced. 

Do cavities only start between teeth? 

Cavities can start anywhere on the tooth where bacteria is left. Areas of your teeth that are difficult to brush, have a higher chance of acquiring a cavity than the easy to brush/floss areas. The biting surface of your teeth have many pits and fissures that require extra attention when brushing. 

Are cavities the reason people need root canals? 

Root canals are needed when someone has a tooth infection. Cavities that are left untreated can lead to an infection but not all root canals are needed because of a cavity. Fractures, cracks and trauma to the teeth can cause nerve damage that requires intervention in the form of a root canal. Serious clenching and grinding of the teeth can cause so much damage to the nerves, a root canal is necessary. 

Does brushing, flossing and rinsing really prevent cavities? 

Brushing, flossing and rinsing definitely helps prevent cavities. You need to remove bacteria from the mouth in order to stop cavities from forming. It is recommended that you brush your teeth three times a day, for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is antibacterial so it lends an extra hand when you are trying to limit your chance of getting a cavity. 

How long has it been since you had your teeth professionally cleaned? Call our office today at (905) 356-4995 and book your next hygiene appointment. Your teeth will thank you.