4 Steps to Stop a Cavity in Its Tracks

Cavities are one of the most frustrating oral health problems. Whenever you worry a cavity might be forming, you start to think about having to go to the dentist, the expense of having it filled, and, for many people, the fear of pain and discomfort associated with this procedure.

Fortunately, catching a cavity early can allow you to stop it in its tracks. But it’s important to note that once a cavity forms, it can only be treated by a dental provider. 

Downtown Dental Studio will fill your cavity for you. Fadi Beydoun, DMD, MS, Alexander Kimon, DMD, and Karina Zaygermakher, DMD, provide considerate care for patients with any number of tooth and oral health problems. However, we also recommend caring for your teeth at home, which is the best way to avoid problems like cavities.  

Four steps to stop a cavity in its tracks 

Cavities are damaged areas in your tooth enamel. They are holes that form in your teeth, and unfortunately, the damaged portion doesn’t grow back. This is why your dentist has to fill the cavity with a kind of composite resin. The procedure is the only way to manage a cavity, which will only worsen with time if it isn’t filled. 

However, there is a way to tell when a cavity is starting to form. It might look like a white or otherwise discolored spot on your tooth. An unformed cavity won’t have started the demineralization process (or diminishing minerals) yet. If this is your situation, there may be some things you can do to stop the process. 

1. Use more fluoride 

One of the best ways to manage this issue is to utilize more fluoride. Fluoride helps to avoid tooth decay and can even reverse it in some cases. It’s found in several places, like most municipal water supplies, many toothpastes, and some foods like coffee, tea, and seafood.

Making sure that you are brushing twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride and that you’re drinking fluoridated water can help with reversing your pre-cavity situation.  

2. Watch what you eat

Eating and drinking increases the acids that wear away at your tooth enamel. If you’re worried about a cavity getting worse, try avoiding snacking between meals and indulging in certain foods and drinks that are more likely to increase the acids in your mouth.

Anything with lots of sugar will wear away at your enamel, so sugary sodas and desserts should be limited during this time. Starchy foods should also stay off the menu. Yogurt, salmon, tuna, and vegetables are excellent choices for this time because they also protect and strengthen your tooth enamel.

3. Perform regular oral hygiene  

Taking care of your teeth is essential to protecting them from a cavity. This means brushing twice a day, flossing, and rinsing your mouth out with mouthwash once a day. This oral health routine is a breeze when you get into the habit. Until then, try using an app that reminds you to stay strict with your oral health care. 

4. Visit your dentist regularly 

Finally, making sure to get regular cleanings also helps you stop potential cavities in their tracks. Because even if you take good care of your teeth at home, there are some places your toothbrush and floss can’t get to. We’ll happily care for them and help keep your teeth in shape. For the best results, visit your dentist twice a year. 

You can avoid a cavity

And it’s easiest to do so with prevention! This means caring for your teeth, eating right, and visiting your dental provider regularly. After all, once a cavity forms, you’ll have to get it repaired, so why not avoid the problem altogether? 

An appointment at our New York City office is just a phone call away! Call 212-964-3337 or make an appointment online at your convenience. We’re happy to help!