Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley CA
Many patients have misconceptions about cavities. By the age of 20, almost 90 percent of Americans have developed at least one cavity, and tooth decay is the number one disease affecting children. That’s why emergency dentists in Scotts Valley at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry want to break down three common myths about cavities and share how you can protect your oral health during the coronavirus pandemic.
Myth 1: Candy is the Cause of All Cavities
Candy isn’t good for your teeth, and can lead to cavities. That doesn’t mean candy is the only culprit. It also doesn’t mean that, if you eliminate sugar from your diet, you’ll be cavity-free. Cavities happen when the pH balance in your mouth is thrown out of balance. This might sound surprising, but maintaining good oral health involves many factors, such as adequate production of saliva, eating a diet of assorted foods that make up nutrient-dense meals, and maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. Sugar does damage teeth, but so do acidic foods and drinks. To limit your risk of tooth decay, avoid excessive amounts of sodas, fruits, fruit juices, and carb-loaded snacks (chips, crackers, or other processed foods). Repeated exposure to highly acidic and sugary foods can wreak havoc on your mouth’s pH balance.
Myth 2: Cavities Are Not a Big Deal
Cavities are an actual medical concern. You can reduce your chance of developing cavities if you take care of your teeth and gums. Good oral hygiene is essential, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, when access to preventive care treatments at the dentist may be postponed for the time being. However, there are some steps you can take during the COVID-19 shutdown to help ensure you protect your oral health. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and drink water or sugar-free beverages instead of sodas and juice. Also, encourage these habits in your children as well.
Myth 3: I Can Ignore Cavities Unless it Hurts
Cavities usually do not cause any sensitivity or pain at first. However, as the decay goes deeper, the tooth may become painful or even lead to an infection that could become life threatening. The sooner a cavity is repaired, the better. Repairing a small cavity means that our Scotts Valley general dentist can preserve more of your natural tooth structure. Plus, a small filling usually is less costly than extensive dental work, such as a root canal or pulling the tooth and replacing it. If you think that you have a cavity, contact Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry and ask about our virtual consultations. You may need treatment right now or can get on the schedule to have your tooth repaired as soon as possible.
Emergency Dentist During Pandemic – Los Gatos, Scotts Valley, and Santa Cruz
A statewide shutdown does not mean that your cavity will go away! It must be addressed before it worsens. If you experience dental pain during the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, an emergency dental office in Scotts Valley, by calling (831) 438-4411. Our staff is taking additional precautions during the pandemic to ensure your health and safety should you need emergency dental treatment during this time.
