What Are Dental Cavities?

Dental cavities are holes in teeth caused by tooth decay. Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities, also called caries, are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks, and not cleaning your teeth well. You can prevent these cavities by scheduling regular dental every six months with one of our dentists at Cadena Dentistry, reducing your sugar intake, as well as brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

If cavities aren’t treated, they get larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth. Finding cavities in the teeth can be tricky, which is why a dentist should always be involved in diagnosing for cavities. Sometimes, cavities can go unnoticed for weeks or months and your dentist will find them during your regular exam. If you experience sensitivity in your tooth as well as visible holes and pits, give us a call right away to discuss your treatment options.

Regular dental visits and good brushing and flossing habits are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay. To learn more about the services we provide at the office, visit www.cadenadentistry.com for more information. To schedule a consultation at Cadena Dentistry in Del Rio, TX, call 830-775-3322.

How to Floss Correctly

Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach – under the gum line between your teeth. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, daily flossing is highly recommended. Here at Cadena Dentistry, you’ll receive floss in your dental goodie bag after every checkup, so utilize it by following these simple steps.

To receive maximum benefits from flossing, use the following proper technique. Starting with about 18 inches of floss, wind most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two of floss to work with. Holding the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up-and-down between your teeth. Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, making sure you go beneath the gum line. Never snap or force the floss, as this may cut or bruise delicate gum tissue. Last but not least, make sure you use clean sections of floss as you move from tooth to tooth. To remove the floss, use the same back-and-forth motion to bring the floss up and away from the teeth.

If you need assistance with your dental routine or you need to schedule a checkup, give us a call today! To learn more about our services provided at Cadena Dentistry visit www.cadenadentistry.com for more information. To schedule a consultation at Cadena Dentistry in Del Rio, TX, call 830-775-3322.

Bridges

Broken or missing teeth can occur for a variety of reasons. For example, trauma to the mouth can fracture a tooth or knock it out completely. In addition, gum disease can cause tooth decay and possibly lead to tooth loss. The good news is at Cadena Dentistry we offer restorative services including dental bridges.

 

A bridge fills in the gap where the missing tooth was. It may be supported by dental implants or natural teeth. A conventional bridge includes two crowns on both sides of the gap. The bridge is attached to the crowns, which act as an anchor and hold the bridge in place.

 

Usually two appointments are needed in order to have a traditional dental bridge placed. The process of getting a bridge will involve preparing the adjacent teeth for the crowns. Preparation involves removing any decay and shaping and filing the teeth. An impression of the teeth is taken so the bridge can be made. While you wait for your permanent bridge to be made, a temporary one will be placed.

Bridges are made from durable materials, such as porcelain, gold or alloy. In some cases, a combination of materials will be used. Proper maintenance of a bridge is essential in order to prevent cavities from developing underneath. Regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings are needed.

 

For more information on bridges or in order to schedule an appointment, please call Cadena Dentistry at 830-775-3322.