14
Aug
What are Some Ways to Prevent Cavities?
Untreated decay can derail your oral health fairly quickly. Decay is caused by bacteria that erode your tooth enamel, forming cavities. The combination of good home care and routine dental cleanings helps protect your teeth from cavities. In this post, Dental Associates of Hoboken dentists, Drs. Bari Posner and Anum Ali in Hoboken, New Jersey, answer your questions about cavities and offer valuable tips on preventing tooth decay.
How do cavities develop?
Cavities are often the result of plaque and tartar buildup on teeth due to poor oral hygiene. Bacteria from plaque and tartar eat away at the enamel of teeth, forming small holes called cavities. Eating sweets can aggravate your condition, as bacteria feed off the sugar in your mouth.
What are some signs I may have cavities?Â
Small cavities may have no symptoms. As decay spreads to the inner layers of your teeth, you may notice or experience:
- Severe pain
- Painful chewing
- Sensitivity, especially when eating sweets or hot or cold foods and drinks
- Small holes in your teeth
- White, black, or brown spots on your teeth
How are cavities treated?
Dental fillings are used to treat cavities. We treat decay with composite resin fillings. This tooth-colored filling is applied in layers to your tooth, covering the area where the decay was removed. A UV light is used to dry the filling and harden it. Afterward, we’ll polish your tooth, making it as good as new.Â
How can I avoid getting cavities?
Good oral care is your best defense against decay. Drs. Posner and Ali recommend you include the following in your oral hygiene routine:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily, preferably at night before bed
- Using an antibacterial rinse daily
- Rinsing your mouth with water after meals
- Eating a healthy diet that limits sugar-filled foods and drinks
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Seeing your dentist at least every six months for checkups and cleanings
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (201) 740-0311 | Existing Patients: (201) 795-2111
How do routine checkups and cleanings help prevent cavities?
Routine checkups allow our team to monitor your oral care habits and oral health. We can alert you to prospective problems with decay due to poor oral hygiene and show you ways to improve. Routine cleanings eliminate plaque and tartar that brushing misses to avoid decay in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth.
What preventive treatments help combat cavities?
Your Hoboken, New Jersey, dentist offers preventive treatments to combat decay, including fluoride, remineralization, and dental sealants. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth, making them less resistant to decay. Sealants are a protective covering we can place over your back teeth to seal out food, bacteria, and debris that can lead to cavities.
Where can I go for cavity prevention and treatment near me?
To schedule preventive treatments against decay or for dental fillings to treat existing cavities, contact Drs. Bari Posner or Anum Ali from Dental Associates of Hoboken in Hoboken, NJ, at (201) 740-0311.
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Dr. Bari Posner
Dr. Anum Ali
Dental Associates of Hoboken, a cornerstone of the Hoboken community for over three decades, combines compassion and expertise in dentistry. Our skilled team includes Dr. Bari Posner and Dr. Anum Ali, each specializing in different facets of dental care. Together, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care with a personal touch to the Hoboken community and beyond.
Dr. Bari Posner earned her degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and is a member of the American Dental Association, the New Jersey Dental Association, and serves on the board of the American Academy of Clear Aligners.
Dr. Anum Ali graduated Summa Cum Laude from Temple University in Philadelphia and is a member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.