Chicago Family Dentist

Cavities
Excess amounts of plaque on your teeth cause cavities to form.  Plaque is made up of germs that cause tooth decay.  This is because your mouth makes acids when plaque clings to your teeth.  This acid can eat away at the enamel, which is the outermost layer of your teeth.  If you put off seeing the dentist, the acids can continue to make their way through the enamel.  This will cause the inside parts of your tooth to begin to decay, and it could reach all the way to the nerve.

What the Dentist Does

In order to determine if you have any cavities, a dentist will take X-rays of your mouth.  In order to repair the decaying tooth, the rotted part must first be removed using a drill.  The hole is then filled using a material like silver (amalgam), white (resin), porcelain, or gold.  

How to Avoid Cavities

Like other tooth and gum related ailments, the most effective form of cavity prevention is brushing your teeth.  Use fluoride toothpaste to brush at least twice a day.  It would be ideal to brush after every meal, but this is not practical for the everyday working adult.  There are, however, some gums that help fight plaque that you can chew after a midday meal.  Make sure to floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food that is stuck between your teeth.  

Speak with a Chicago Family Dentist

If you or your child has a toothache, a cavity could be the cause of your pain.  Contact Chicago family dentist Dr. Bagai at 777.767.7554 to schedule an appointment today.