Dental cavities can be prevented with a combination of good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. When too much oral bacteria take up residence in your mouth, the acids they secrete can eat through the enamel, leading to holes known as cavities or dental caries.

The sooner you have a cavity filled, the better since untreated cavities can grow larger and eventually cause serious toothaches and infections. What’s even better than treating cavities is preventing them, which requires a combination of good at-home dental care, regular professional cleanings, and sometimes supplemental treatments like sealants and fluoride treatments.