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It is true that causes of tooth decay vary, but the results are always the same.  Whatever the cause,it matters a lot how we take care of our teeth. Though largely ignored in the current day, tooth decay is a common health problem that is likely to affect everyone; children and adults alike. The sugary foods and drinks we consume become the food for the bacteria that dwell in our mouths,which release the acids that damage the enamel of our teeth.

There are various options to consider for avoiding and curing tooth decay.

  • Regular visits to the dentist at least every six months are advisable; this would be helpful in detecting any development of tooth decay especially in the early stages. If the tooth decay has already occurred, the dentist will advise on the best treatment process to undertake before more damage is done.
  • Proper oral hygiene, which includes daily brushing and regular flossing of your teeth to remove any food particles stuck on the teeth. This would help in preventing further damage to any healing decay, or any occurrence of new decay.
  • Extraction of the decaying tooth is a severe way of curing tooth decay. This is in the very extreme cases when the decay has gone beyond a repairable point using other methods. This is considered the last option. However it should be a recommendation from your dentist as leaving a heavily decayed tooth in place can attract more decay.
  • Use of fillings: A filling is made of porcelain, metal or plastic, and is used to replace the decayed part of the tooth to prevent further damage.
  • Use of crowns: this is applicable when the decay is severe and a normal filling would be too weak. The dentist may advise that you have a crown instead.
  • Avoiding the heavy consumption of sugary stuff will go a big mile in controlling tooth decay. If we really have to, it is advisable to eat them during,and not in between, meals and completely avoid them before sleep.
  • Feeding right is commonly overlooked. but it is has been suggested that it may be a great way to keep away tooth decay. Foods with Vitamin A and D are strongly encouraged. They help the body to process calcium which help in building of strong teeth and bones.

With all the above options, you are now enlightened on how to treat, but preferably avoid, tooth decay. You should not wait to lose your teeth. Make your dentist your closest friend. The more you put it off, the more it will probably be cost to fix, and the more damage will be caused to your teeth.

Contact a dentist or dental hygienist at Water Brook Dental in Washington DC for a dental check-up and other dental needs. Water Brook Dental has two locations in Washington DC. The Columbia Heights location is very  conveniently located to Downtown DC, Northeast DC, Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, U-Street Corridor, Mount Pleasant and many other parts of Washington. The Eastern Ave NW location is conveniently located to Downtown Silver Spring, Takoma Park MD, Silver Spring MD, Colesville, and other parts of Maryland as well as Northern Virginia and other parts of Virginia.