In a few days Halloween will be here. Have your little ones picked out a costume? While going around the town looking for candy can be fun, you probably understand that too many sugary sweets can boost the risk of tooth decay. To keep your smile safe this Halloween and avoid the onset of cavities, you need to take care of your smile.
Dental Cavities
Cavities can be linked to consuming too much candy, as well as other foods and drinks high in sugar and other starches. Our teeth are coated in a layer of enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The enamel protects the more sensitive inner layers of dentin from bacteria. However, if the enamel becomes weakened then bacteria can reach the dentin causing a cavity to form. Sugary snacks can weaken enamel as bacteria break down the food particles, coating the teeth in plaque and increasing oral acidity.
Do I Have One?
How do you know if you have a cavity? First, you may develop tooth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold food/drinks. In addition, you may notice a toothache that doesn’t subside. If so, we recommend seeing a dentist before the issue escalates. After all, an untreated cavity can lead to an infection, which threatens the health and stability of your smile.
Avoid Tooth Decay
How do you avoid tooth decay? First, try to limit your child’s access to candy. You can let them have a few pieces of their haul with dinner, so they drink water and help rinse away the sugar particles. You can also encourage them to donate the candy, giving it to soldiers through programs such as Operation Gratitude. You can also have your little one’s teeth cleaned once every six months and help them brush and floss properly every day.
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.