Talking cavities, with Pediatric Dental Partners

One word no parent wants to hear when they visit Pediatric Dental Partners is 'cavity.' That’s right, that dreaded cavity. But what exactly is a cavity and how do we get them? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger, our doctors say.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen or Chidlow, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit Pediatric Dental Partners every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up!

If you have any questions about cavities, or your treatment at Pediatric Dental Partners, we encourage you to give us a call!