The truth is, it takes a while for tooth decay to actually get started and then to form, leaving you with a cavity. However, from your perspective, it may seem as though everything was perfectly fine one moment and then bam! Suddenly you have this hygiene-related illness affecting your tooth and you need restorative dental care to fix it. How did you miss the process that got you there, you ask? Our Austin, TX team is happy to explain what’s going on that may be causing you to think that decay spontaneously arrives, when it’s actually something that no longer needs to catch you by surprise.
You’re Not Coming In For Six-Month Visits
If you’re not coming in for your six-month dental checkups and cleanings with us, then you might think that tooth decay is happening suddenly because you don’t really know about it for sure until you see us. What you don’t realize is that you may have had that cavity for six months or even a year or longer! So, stick with your visits to see our team and we can detect softening of your enamel or the very early stages of decay the moment they begin (which means no more surprises).
You’re Ignoring Symptoms
We know that sometimes, you may experience symptoms of tooth decay but you ignore them, overlook them, take a pain reliever, or wish them away. Then, you feel shocked when you’re diagnosed with tooth decay. Instead, listen to that little voice that tells you your pain, sensitivity, etc., mean it’s time for a trip to see your dentist.
You Think No Immediate Damage Means No Damage
When you skip a brushing session, go to bed, and get up in the morning to see that your smile looks like it did the day before, you don’t have any pain, and you can’t detect any other sort of change, you may be assuming that no damage has been done. However, what you’re missing about tooth decay is that it’s a slower process. Remember that plaque can harden into tartar in just 24 hours but the effects of tartar buildup will take more than just that one event. Particularly when there are skipped brushing sessions here and there, over time, it adds up and decay you cannot detect as it begins forming will, eventually, appear.
See Us For Checkups Every Six Months
Always schedule a dental checkup and cleaning with our team, two times a year, with visits planned out approximately six months apart. Prevention is key to avoiding or quickly treating issues like decay! Schedule a visit with your dentist in Austin, TX by contacting Austin General Dentistry today at 512-346-5540.
