Dental cavities are preventable. But if prevention does not work, a Hollywood, Florida dentist can treat cavities properly. Dentists can clean your teeth and gums as well as offer advice on oral care to help you avoid cavities. When a cavity forms, your dentist can get rid of the decayed part of your tooth and place a dental filling on it. 

How to Prevent the Formation of Cavities

Dentists clean and check patients’ teeth. An in-office dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that you probably miss when you brush and floss your teeth. Indeed, it is nearly impossible for you to get rid of teeth buildup on your own. This is the reason you must see your dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups. 

Getting Dental Advice

During your routine dental visit, your dentist can give advice on how you can maintain good oral health. Your dentist may advise you to brush and floss your teeth properly and regularly. Also, they will emphasize the importance of rinsing your mouth with a fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash. Eating a well-balanced diet and limiting or cutting out consumption of carbonated beverages may also be advised. Your dentist will tell you to visit them again after six months. 

Treatment Options

If you have dental cavities, there is not much you can do about them at home. A dentist is the only person who can address your dental problem. They will confirm that your tooth pain is caused by a cavity. Sometimes, tooth pain can result from a sinus or gum infection. But dental cavities commonly cause oral pain that your dentist can easily diagnose and treat. Your treatment options include the following:

• Fillings. Dental fillings are available in different materials such as resin and porcelain. These materials are used for replacing a decayed tooth material that your dentist gets rid of. 
• Fluoride treatments. Sometimes, your dentist will treat cavities without a filling. In this case, they will recommend a fluoride treatment to stop the decay and allow your enamel to heal. But this works if a cavity is discovered early.
• Crowns. Serious tooth decay may require a crown placement. After your dentist removes the damaged tooth material, they fit you for tooth covering, which is usually made of porcelain, metal, or resin. Often, the fitting and application require a couple of appointments. However, some dentists provide same-day crowns. 

Your dentist can help you avoid cavities by thoroughly cleaning your teeth every six months and advising you on how you can improve your oral hygiene. When you visit your dentist, they will investigate your dental issue and prescribe appropriate treatment.