What to Do When a Crown Falls Out
Dental crowns are useful in protecting damaged teeth, but if something happens and they end up falling out, you’ll need to know how to keep things from worsening. Read on to find out how to manage the situation.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), more than 90% of American adults ages 20-64 have had at least one cavity. What’s more, the NIH also says that more than 20% of Americans live with untreated tooth decay.
If you don’t want to be one of those statistics — particularly the latter one — you can take certain steps. In this blog, the dental experts at Fresh Dental Care explain why cavities develop and how you can help prevent them from developing.
Cavities are essentially holes in your teeth. Each time you eat, bacteria that coat your teeth have the opportunity to turn any sugars you’ve consumed into acid. Over time, this acid can break down the enamel, which is the hard outer coating of your teeth. If the decay breaks through the enamel, a cavity can develop.
Factors that can increase your risk of developing a cavity include having the following:
Fortunately, you can take steps at home to reduce your risk of developing cavities.
To start, you should brush your teeth well at least twice a day, although brushing after every meal is preferred. When you brush, you should use a toothpaste with fluoride. You should also floss at least once a day.
If you’re especially prone to developing cavities, our team may recommend a special fluoride rinse that you can use on a regular basis. We may also suggest preventative treatments, such as getting a dental sealant. Dental sealants form a protective coating over the grooves in your teeth that could otherwise collect food and bacteria.
What you eat plays a role in cavity prevention, too. Aim for a nutritious diet that limits sugary sweets. And make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Even with these preventive measures, the best way to prevent cavities is to visit us twice a year for routine dental cleanings. Professional cleanings go beyond what you can accomplish at home. Plus, they give us the opportunity to identify risk factors and signs of cavities early on.
If you’re due for a teeth cleaning, book an appointment over the phone with Fresh Dental Care today. We have three locations in Houston, and we’re ready to serve you.
