Make sure you have a complete set of dental supplies in order to maintain total dental care and good dental health, and to prevent cavities from forming.

Some of the dental supplies you need to invest on are: a good toothbrush, one preferably recommended by your dentist; waterpicks which are useful in getting out debris from areas missed by brushing and flossing; dental floss for hard to reach in between teeth areas; fluoride mouth rinse and fluoride toothpaste for cavity protection. Don’t just go for come-ons given by certain brands of dental products. Read the labels and find out if the product you are buying is recommended and approved by dental associations. For instance, whitening toothpastes do not necessarily contain fluoride. So if you were to choose between whitening and fluoride contents, you might as well choose the latter.

Majority of cavities are completely painless – because the outer enamel has no nerves and it is only when the cavity enters the dentin that one may be aware of its existence. The most common symptom is an increased sensation to cold and/or sweet foods or beverages. The cavity weakens the tooth and can cause a fracture when biting down.

It is better to treat a small cavity than to wait until they feel pain. By that time, the cavity may have infected the dental pulp, requiring a root canal or an extraction. Regular dental examinations will reduce the probability that a dental cavity goes undetected and spread.

People who have dry mouth are more likely to get cavities. Dry mouth may be caused by illness, medications, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and depending on its cause, may be either permanent or temporary.

The three main types of cavities are: coronal, root, and recurrent decay. Coronal cavities, the most common type of cavity occurring in children and adults, usually are located on chewing surfaces or between the teeth. Root cavities are usually found on the root of the tooth when part of the tooth’s root is exposed, infecting the dental pulp. Recurrent decay is formed around existing fillings and crowns.

So how is cavity filling done? It starts with thoroughly cleaning the cavity and its surrounding areas by means of hand instruments and mechanical rotary instruments. Then the dentist dries the cavity by blowing air to the hole by means of a small air pump. Afterwards, the clean cavity is filled with either dental amalgam, composite material gold or porcelain. However there is this time tested and widely preferred silver filling which is more economical and longer lasting.

Previously, when an old filling wears out or you had a cavity, your only option was to get another silver filling. However, silver fillings have several drawbacks – edges of silver fillings can wear down and become weak; when fillings break, the tooth is no longer sealed, and cavities get started again. A cavity can develop under a filling, and silver fillings work like a wedge inside the tooth. As the metal contracts and expands with age, it splits the tooth.

Silver fillings, made of 50% mercury, can corrode and leak, producing stains on the teeth and gums. Some people are concerned because of mercury’s toxicity.

Is it true that cavities, when remained unchecked, can lead to heart disease? There are conflicting contentions with regard to this question, however, popular medical opinion attests to its veracity.

The mouth is a favorite place for bacteria to breed. These bacteria even double or triple with the presence of cavities. Since cavities are open cuts in the teeth, bacteria may penetrate through them and unto the blood stream. Through the blood stream, bacteria can travel to the heart. It has been found out that there is a high level of streptococcus in these bacteria that may cause heart disease.

There are some cavities remains at the back of the mouth that are hard to reach with a toothbrush. These cavities will cause acid, so in order to prevent this, dental sealants is used. This product really works especially in controlling bad breath and keeping your mouth clean. Dental sealants are transparent plastic coatings which can be applied to the teeth. It prevents bacteria from settling in the grooves and pits which causes bad breath and other dental problems. It also provides long lasting protection against cavity. But remember, this is just consider a factor in helping you to avoid cavity, you still and must maintain a proper oral hygiene.

Ever wonder why you have bad breath? Here are health problems associated with bad breath.

• Gum or periodontal disease

• Poorly fitting dental appliances

• Yeast infections of the mouth

• Dental cavities

• Dry mouth (dry mouth may be caused by side effects of medications, salivary gland problems or continuous breathing through the mouth)

• Respiratory tract infections like pneumonia or bronchitis

• Chronic sinus infections

• Postnasal drip

• Diabetes

• Chronic acid reflux

• Liver or kidney problems

Sources: EzineArticles.com