For dental professionals, this is the spookiest time of the year. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas may seem like very unrelated holidays, but these are the trifecta of sugary sweet- based celebrations, encouraging celebrants to embrace their sweet tooth and subsequently, leading to an increased risk of cavities. In today’s blog, your Brighton, MA, dentists will discuss ways to protect your smile from the onset of cavities!
Sugary Sweets and Cavities
When we consume foods high in sugar and starch, as well as beverages with high amounts of sugar, this leaves behind particles on and between the teeth. Eventually, bacteria will break down these particles, a process that boosts oral acidity and actually coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque buildup. This bacterial byproduct may weaken enamel over time, eroding the outer layer and allowing cavities to form, in addition to increasing the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. Unless we remove the buildup with our routine care and dental cleanings, this means your teeth could begin to suffer from tooth sensitivity and toothaches as cavities form and the risk of dental infection increases.
Potential Warning Signs
If you attend regular visits for checkups and cleanings every six months or so, this means we can likely identify cavities in the earliest stages, often before you experience the symptoms. Otherwise, tooth sensitivity and toothaches could form and at that point, your decay is in the later stages, meaning treatment is crucial for avoiding dental infections and abscesses. Don’t ignore persistent pain or sensitivity in your smile, let us know right away!
Protecting Your Smile
First, try to cut back on the sugary foods and drinks you consume, including Halloween candy, sugary desserts at Thanksgiving, and Christmas goodies. Next, brush your teeth twice daily, when you wake and again before bed, using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. You also need to floss every night before bed to remove what a toothbrush alone cannot. Follow up your sugary and starchy holiday favorites with a glass of water to help cleanse your mouth, and consider taking a brief break after meals to floss. If you have any questions about keeping your smile cavity-free and protecting your overall oral health, then contact our team today to schedule your next checkup and cleaning visit!
Ready to Keep Your Smile Cavity-Free?
At Brighton Family Dental Group, our team wants to help protect your smile from the dangers of tooth decay. With routine visits and better homecare habits, you can safeguard your teeth and gums! You can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Villani or Dr. Kondrat by reaching out to our office at (617) 562-5210. We are proud to offer a range of dental services to patients from Cambridge, Brookline, and all neighboring communities.
