Posted

We have all experienced the inconvenience and discomfort of dental cavities. Our mouths contain several types of bacteria, and the bacteria feed off the sugars and starches from the foods that we eat. The bacteria then create an acidic film that sticks to our teeth. This acid demineralizes the enamel, the top coating of our teeth. This can eventually lead to a cavity, and the first sign of a cavity may be a sensitivity to eating or drinking very cold or very hot foods. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris of Mansfield believe in preventing problems before they occur, and we now discuss some steps you can take to stop cavities before they start.

Steps You Can Take

  • Take advantage of Fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that can stop or even reverse early tooth decay. Most major municipalities supply fluoridated water for this reason, but if your child only drinks bottled water, you may consider introducing tap water to her water supply. Our dentists also recommend using fluoride toothpaste.
  • Limit snacks between meals. While it is important to avoid sugary foods and drinks such as sodas and fruit juices, our dentists also suggest reducing snacks between meals if possible. Each time we eat, our mouth’s bacteria flourish from the carbohydrates and produces acids that can eat through the enamel. Eating fewer small meals or snacks throughout the day gives our teeth more time to remedy themselves from this acid.
  • Avoid sugary drinks after evening brushing. When we sleep, our saliva flow decreases, and that decrease in saliva makes it more difficult for our teeth to mend themselves from the acid. Lower saliva flow is a risk factor in tooth decay. So keep your teeth clean while you sleep.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene habits. Our dentists strongly support brushing twice a day and flossing at least once daily. To prevent cavities and treat them before they worsen, it is also vital to maintain dental check-ups every six months.

About Our Doctors

Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris have been treating their patients with gentle, individualized care for several years. If you have a question about your tooth pain or would like to schedule an appointment, call their Mansfield office at (817) 259-1357. They serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Fort Worth, Alvarado, and Midlothian areas.