Tooth decay or cavities affect nearly as many people as the common cold. It is a frequent and preventable reason for tooth loss in young adults and children. Tooth decay is also a typical reason for dental pain and visits to an emergency dentist. The best way to avoid a dental emergency is to practice good dental hygiene and eliminate the primary causes for tooth decay.

Saliva, acid and bacteria help you digest your food. These substances coalesce with the bits of food in your mouth and form plaque within about 20 minutes of your meal or snack. Sacramento residents who consume sticky carbohydrates, such as candy, sodas, milk, pastries and bananas are more likely to develop plaque because these foods cling to the surface of their teeth. The base of your teeth, back molars and edges of fillings are particularly problematic because they are difficult to clean.

Certain medications and lifestyle choices cause tooth decay because they reduce saliva production. Saliva cleanses your mouth and fights disease. Speak with your Sacramento emergency dentist if you use tobacco or medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines and other products that decrease your saliva flow.

The acids in the plaque erode your tooth enamel and create cavities. Over time plaque hardens and accumulates on your teeth to form tartar. Both of these irritating substances inflame your gums and create pockets that trap additional plaque and tartar. The domino effect of irritation and inflammation compromises the health of your gums and ultimately the ligaments and bones supporting your teeth.

Periodontal disease is a common reason why adults experience bleeding gums, lose their teeth and need tooth pain relief.

Tooth decay erodes your tooth enamel and exposes the nerves to food and temperature extremes. Poor dental hygiene also allows bacteria to multiply and infect your teeth and gums. This can cause bleeding gums or an abscessed tooth.

Warning signs of an abscessed tooth include a bad taste or odor in your mouth and pain when you chew or bite. It’s important to see a Sacramento emergency dentist at the earliest signs of a problem because this is a potentially life threatening health condition that should be treated immediately. Your emergency dentist can treat the infection and provide effective tooth pain relief. Early diagnosis and treatment may enable the dentist to repair and save your tooth.

People who brush and floss after eating reduce their chance of developing plaque and tartar deposits. They are less likely to have cavities and need tooth pain relief. You can prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth after each meal and especially before going to sleep.

Avoid eating sticky foods or brush promptly to remove plaque before it has a chance to damage your teeth. Eating nutritious, well-balanced meals and limiting snack foods is an important step toward protecting your teeth and overall health.

You should also visit your Sacramento dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Your dentist can identify minor dental issues before they become major problems.