With everything going on for the holiday season, it is best to maintain a healthy smile. In order to do that, it is important to understand what cavities are, how they form, and what you can do to stop them from happening.

The outer layer of your tooth is called enamel; a cavity forms when a portion of that enamel erodes and forms a hole. That hole is the cavity.

Tooth enamel erodes because of acids coating the tooth. Sometimes the acid comes from outside sources such as acidic food and drink. It is likely, though, that the acids which formed the cavity are a byproduct of the bacteria living in in your mouth. These bacteria feed on sugar. This is why Dr. Tyler Christopherson advises you to limit your sugary foods! It isn’t the sugar itself that destroys your teeth, but the acids produced by the bacteria.

Unfortunately for your sweet tooth, the practical application is that you still need to limit your sugars. In fact, it means you should limit your acidic foods, as well. When you do choose to partake of these foods, be sure to accompany them with a large glass of plain water.

The best way to prevent cavities is to brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each session. The sticky film on your teeth is called plaque, and it is made of bacteria. Flossing every day is also vital, as it removes plaque and debris from places your brush cannot reach.

For more information, call Christopherson Family Dentistry in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, at 715-952-5920.  Dr. Tyler Christopherson and our team are happy to help your smile shine!