If you feel pain or discomfort in your tooth, it’s important that you visit West County Dental in St. Louis as soon as possible. Dr. Spalitto will examine your teeth, and if he finds tooth decay, he will recommend fillings or even a root canal. If you forgo treatment, your teeth may become so damaged that they require extraction. To avoid unwanted dental issues, you must practice consistent prevention methods.
Though important, daily brushing and flossing are only part of good oral hygiene. Your oral health has a lot to do with what you eat, drink, and chew. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and create plaque, which attacks tooth enamel. By restricting your consumption of sugary foods and beverages—including candy and soft drinks—you can reduce the formation of plaque. Even if you have a healthy diet, you must still clean your teeth each day to keep them free of decay. Dr. Spalitto also recommends avoiding the habitual chewing of ice, pen caps, and other objects that can crack teeth or wear down enamel.