Tooth decay occurs as enamel becomes destroyed. Bacteria naturally forms on teeth. After you eat sugary foods, this bacteria turns into acid that eats away at the outer layer of your teeth. The end result is cavities. To avoid these problems, it is important to learn ways to prevent cavities from forming.
Prevention Tips
The American Dental Association offers a few oral care tips that help to prevent tooth decay.
- Brush with a Fluoride Toothpaste: It is advised to brush after each time you eat or at least twice a day. Using a fluoride toothpaste will guard your teeth and strengthen enamel.
- Rinse. Rinsing with a mouthwash cleans your teeth of trapped food particles and may kill bacteria that sticks to enamel.
- Limit Sugary Snacks: Snacking throughout the day, especially with sugary foods and beverages, is a recipe for disaster. If you are hungry in between meals, it is better to stick with small treats like fresh vegetables and to rinse with water. It is wise to eat a well-balanced diet as well.
- Consider Sealants: Dental sealants are protective coatings that are applied to the grooves of your back teeth. They guard the areas where food and bacteria often collect. Since they last for up to ten years, they offer an extra sense of security as they help keep cavities to a minimum.
- Visit Your Dentist: It is essential to schedule regular dental visits. You will receive a professional cleaning and oral exam. This means that your dentist will detect problems before they become major. Also, your dentist may offer more tips that will help you keep tooth decay from occurring.
We strive to provide optimum oral care to all patients. To learn more ways that cavities can be prevented, schedule an appointment at our office.