Tooth decay is one of the most common preventable illnesses in the UK and at Liverpool Dental Spa we are determined to defeat decay for good. We offer preventative treatment, we are always here to offer advice and we have excellent treatments available for cavities.
What causes decay?
Dental decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth, which combines with food debris to create plaque. Plaque is also the main risk factor for gum disease. It is a sticky film-like substance, which sticks to the tooth surfaces and the gum line. When you eat, bacteria in the plaque release acids known as plaque acids. These acids erode the enamel and irritate the gums. When acids attack the enamel, it becomes weak and holes can eventually form. These are called cavities.
The risk of decay is increased by poor oral hygiene and a diet that contains a lot of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
Preventing tooth decay
We offer highly effective preventative dental treatments for children to reduce the risk of cavities and protect the enamel. These include fluoride varnish and sealant treatment. We also offer advice about oral hygiene and diet for adults and we strongly recommend regular dental check-ups and sessions with our amazing dental hygienists.
Diet plays a really important role when it comes to oral health and we advise our patients to avoid eating a lot of sugary and acidic products, especially between meals, and to wait an hour before brushing after eating. If you get hungry between meals, we recommend healthy snacks such as raw vegetables, wholegrain crackers or natural yoghurt, rather than sugary treats like chocolate bars and sweets.
Treatment for decay
The most common treatment for a cavity is a filling. Fillings are used to fill the cavity, making the tooth stronger and reducing the risk of harmful bacteria spreading through the tooth. We recommend white fillings, which match the shade of the rest of the tooth. These fillings are made from dental composite. The procedure takes around an hour and we use local anaesthetic to numb the tooth to make sure you feel comfortable throughout treatment.
Tags: oral hygiene liverpool, tooth decay Liverpool, tooth decay treatment liverpool, treating tooth decay liverpool
