Pasadena Texas Dentist:

Cavities / Decay

Dental decay is still an major factor around the world. Most people know that a dental cavity is a hole in a tooth. But did you know that a cavity is the result of a slow processes that happens over time? Furthermore, did you know that you can halt and even reverse the decay process to avoid a cavity?

The mouth is full of bacteria. Hundreds of different types live on our teeth, gums, and tongue. Bacteria are responsible for the tooth decay process.

Bacteria will eat sugars from our food and will create acid as a waste product. So basically, the bacteria are “pooping acid” onto your teeth. The enamel starts to break down and eventually a hole is created.

The fight over your teeth:

• One team is composed of dental plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria—plus foods and drinks that contain sugar or starch (such as milk, candy, cookies,  soda, juice, bread and many others). When we eat or drink anything that contains sugar or starch, the bacteria use the sugar to produce acids. The acids begin to eat away at the tooth’s hard outer surface, or enamel.

• On the other team are the minerals in our saliva ( calcium and phosphate) plus fluoride from toothpaste, water, and other sources. These minerals helps enamel repair itself by replacing minerals lost during an “acid attack.” Thus, it is possible to reverse the damage created by the bacteria.

This “tug of war”  processes of de-mineralization by acid and re-mineralization by calcium, phosphate and fluoride happens all day long.

Get the advantage over dental decay:

1. Limit sugar consumption
2. Brush your teeth 3 times a day and floss once per day
3. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride

About:

Dr. Michael Nugent is a Pasadena, Texas Dentist that  is located at 3421 Burke Rd, Pasadena, Texas 77504. The office excels at Cosmetic, Family, Implant and Sedation Dentistry. The office has been in the same location for over 35 years and Dr. Nugent is only the second doctor. You will not get “fast food” or “insurance mill” service at Dr. Nugent’s office. Each and every time you come you will see the same hygienist and the same doctor. We get to know you and your teeth personally.  Dr. Nugent has been voted BEST PASADENA TEXAS DENTIST multiple times. See what caring and gentle dentistry and get the best in dental care for your family.