The Truth About Cavities

woman with contemplative expressionIf you’ve never felt the discomfort of a cavity, then you might not consider the condition a major concern. After all, you brush your teeth twice or more every day, and you’re careful not to indulge in too many sweets or sugary drinks. Nevertheless, a good hygiene routine and a healthy fear of sugar aren’t necessarily a guarantee against tooth decay—the disease that leads to cavity development. By understanding how they form, you can better protect your teeth from destructive cavities to preserve your healthy, natural smile.

Sugar Isn’t the Only Danger

Because of the countless warnings that many of us received as children about candy rotting our teeth, many patients believe that sugar is the main, and only relevant, reason for your teeth to cavities. The truth, however, is that sugar is only a small part of the tooth decay equation. The real culprit lies within the hundreds of kinds of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque; mainly Streptococcus mutans. (more…)

Prevention Is the Best Dental Treatment

pretty woman with approving smileConsidering the frequency with which you should practice it, you may not consider brushing and flossing your teeth a form of dentistry. Nevertheless, cleaning away the food debris and plaque that clings to your teeth every day is perhaps the most important preventive dental measure. Besides home hygiene, your teeth also require regular professional checkups and cleanings to remove plaque and its calcified cousin, tartar. Preventive dentistry is the cornerstone of good dental health, and can help you avoid the need for cosmetic or restorative treatments to improve your smile’s strength and beauty. At our Shrewsbury dentist’s office, Dr. Pizzi offers expert preventive care, including routine dental checkups and cleanings, to help ensure the long-term health and beauty of your smile. (more…)