Tooth decay is a very common problem among those both old and young, with many rating it as the number one type of infectious disease. There are a lot of things that go into keeping and maintaining healthy teeth, but brushing and flossing are the two most important things a person can do to help prevent periodontal disorders. With that said, even with the strictest of brushing and flossing, it is still common for people to develop at least one cavity throughout their life.

Cavities are small holes that develop in the enamel of a persons tooth. The enamel is the outer covering of the tooth and is actually the hardest part of the body, but when plaque and sugars buildup on the tooth, they can cause bacteria to form and eat through the enamel. Under the enamel is a substance called dentin, which is not as tough as enamel and can be very sensitive to the touch.

The actual holes are caused by an acid which is formed that eats through the outer layer of the tooth, which is a combination of phosphate and calcium. If left without any treatment, a cavity can actually reach the root of the tooth, causing a great deal of pain, especially in regards to hot and cold temperatures.

In the most serious event, a cavity can result in the tooth needing to be extracted, but if caught soon enough, they can usually be treated by drilling out the decayed portion and filling it back in with some sort of amalgam. This is one of the reasons that it is important to see your Tijuana dentist regularly, because by the time you can feel a cavity, it has already become very established.

Cavities are caused when plaque, saliva, sugars, and food particles remain on the tooth, using a toothbrush and floss is one of the most effective means of preventative care. Most dentists recommend flossing at least once a day and brushing twice daily. Most toothpastes will provide cavity protection for about twelve hours, so it is just as important to brush your teeth at night, as it is in the morning.

Flossing is also extremely important, because it helps remove small pieces of food that get stuck between the teeth and around the gum line. Even with the most aggressive of brushing, it is still not possible to get to these parts, which is why flossing daily is important. When flossing, it is important to not just go up and down between the tooth, but to also wrap the floss around the base of the tooth.

Give us a call us today! We’ll be happy to answer all your questions, give you an accurate quote, schedule your appointment, and help you make all the arrangements needed for your visit to Tijuana. Dental Integral is the best option for professional and affordable dental care.