The process of taking care of your teeth is something that should begin as early as possible and should be a lifelong endeavor. However, you may have let your oral hygiene slip and after many years you may realize that your teeth are in very bad shape. The good news is that it's never too late to improve your oral hygiene and a general dentist will be able to help you.

The First Steps

Neglecting your teeth for years can lead to damage that won't be easy to reverse. However, there is always something that can be done. It's important to get into the habit of brushing and flossing every day and it might also be a good idea to limit the consumption of beverages that are bad for your teeth such as sugary sodas.

How Your Dentist Will Help You

Meet with a general dentist and tell them that you are concerned about your teeth. They will be able to perform an inspection and determine the best steps that can be taken to protect your teeth from further damage.

Bacteria and certain foods and beverages attack your teeth all day long. Your body uses saliva to try to replace the minerals that were lost as a result of these acid attacks. By brushing your teeth, you will be applying fluoride to your teeth which also helps with the remineralization process. 

Have Your Cavities Filled

Your dentist might discover several cavities that need to be filled. They will use fillings to fill up the cavities to stop the decay of your teeth. Fortunately, your dentist can use a tooth-colored filling, known as a composite resin, so your tooth will not have a visible silver filling.

Afterward, your dentist might be able to apply sealants. These are thin substances that will cover your teeth and protect them from acids to help slow down your oral decay. The sealants prevent food and bacteria from entering grooves that the toothbrush cannot reach so your teeth can be better protected.

Teeth Restoration

If your teeth have decayed to such an extent that they are broken or you have even lost a tooth, there is still something that can be done. A dentist can use crowns, implants, dentures, and veneers. 

Each of these tooth restoration options has upsides and downsides. Therefore, it's essential to have a long discussion with your dentist before committing to a treatment option. Reach out to services like Mark A. Massa, DDS, Inc to learn more.