How to Prevent Tooth Decay
Posted by Colleen Fanning on Nov 7, 2012 in frontpage | Comments Off on How to Prevent Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when foods that are high in sugar and starch are left on the teeth. This is where plaque, the substance that clings to your teeth and causes cavities originates from. The good news is that tooth decay is preventable. Here are steps you can take to ensure that you are doing your best to avoid cavities and prevent tooth decay:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after each meal and especially before going to bed. If you cannot brush right after eating food, at least attempt to rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
- Clean between your teeth daily with dental floss. Flossing regularly and properly can greatly lower the risks of getting cavities. Use floss with subtle movements around the base of each tooth.
- Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks. Avoid carbohydrates such as candy, pretzels and chips, which can remain on the tooth surface. If sticky foods are eaten, brush your teeth soon afterwards.
- Check with your dentist about use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth. Your dentist might suggest a fluoride treatment, particularly if you are not receiving a sufficient amount of fluoride via fluoridated drinking water. In the fluoride treatment, your dentist exposes your teeth to strong fluoride for a few minutes.
- Ask your dentist about dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay.
- Drink tap water. The fluoride in public tap water helps reduce cavities. Bottled water does not have fluoride, so be sure to supplement bottled water with tap water daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exam. Scheduling professional cleanings regularly will help you get rid of plaque and identify any problems early.
