Although almost everyone has probably heard a lot about cavities since childhood, only a few truly understand what they are, how they develop, and what can be done about them. Your dentist in Palm Beach Gardens will tell you that cavities often start small and, in most cases, they develop without you noticing them. To help you keep your smile at its best for years to come, you’ll need to know the common misconceptions about cavities. Check this out:

No Pain Means No Cavities

Not all the time. When a cavity is forming, you won’t feel any pain or sensitivity. When it reaches its advanced stage where the nerve of your affected tooth becomes involved, you’ll start to experience pain when you eat something hot, cold or sweet. This is why it’s important to see your dentist in Palm Beach Gardens for your regular checkups and cleanings.

Cavities are Caused by Sugar

Although sugar from your desserts, candies, and sodas is one of the culprits that lead to cavities, the starches from pasta and bread also encourage bacterial buildup on the teeth. These bacteria produce acids that eat away at your teeth. The only way to prevent cavities is to brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time, floss once a day, and rinse once a day with an antibacterial mouthwash.

Eating Several Times a Day Will Keep Your Teeth Healthy

While it’s true that chewing activates the flow of saliva (which contains minerals that protect your teeth) in your mouth, frequent snacking can mean introducing sugars and starches into your mouth. This will lead to increased acid production that can damage your enamel. It’s best to limit constant grazing to give your teeth some time to recover.

See the Dentist in Palm Beach Gardens

Do you need a dental checkup? Book an appointment with the dentist in Palm Beach Gardens by calling Gardens Family Dentistry now!