Poor oral health can lead to cavities. The problem occurs when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and the bacteria in the plaque react with food and saliva in your mouth to form acids. The tooth enamel is damaged by these acids and a hole can form on the tooth’s surface. If it remains untreated, the cavity will become larger and you may need crowns, fillings, or inlays.
To effectively prevent cavities long term, here are ten tips that you can follow consistently:
- To fight off cavities, it is essential that you brush your teeth properly at least twice a day and after meals with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. If you are unable to brush after meals, rinse with plain water to remove food debris.
- Clean your tongue after brushing your teeth. You can do this with a toothbrush or you can also buy a special plastic tongue scraper from pharmacies.
- Proper nutrition plays an important role in good dental health. Eat healthy, tooth-friendly foods like fresh fruits and vegetables and unsweetened drinks.
- Limit snacks and avoid chips, candies and chewy toffees that get stuck in your teeth unless you can brush immediately after eating them. Limit the amount of juice or sugary drinks throughout the day.
- Consider using a microbial mouth rinse if you are at significant risk of developing cavities. Rinsing with one of these mouth rinses after brushing or eating can aid in cavity prevention.
- Don’t forget to drink lots of water to curb acid erosion. Drink fluoridated tap water regularly.
- For strong teeth you need calcium and since your body does not produce it, you need to drink a glass of milk every day to fortify your teeth.
- You can chew sugar-free gum after each meal, as it helps increase the flow of saliva in the mouth to flush out any leftover debris and acid from the meal.
- Consider Dental sealants if you’re at risk for developing cavities. Dental sealants are a protective coating that is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth, which protects the tooth from getting a cavity by shielding against bacteria and plaque.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. They are a key factor in preventing cavities and staying on top of good oral hygiene.
Untreated cavities and gum disease may lead to many serious infections and conditions, such as diabetes and respiratory diseases. So instill good oral habits, choose a healthy diet and do visit your dentist for annual exams to keep your teeth happy.
Make the time to pay closer attention to your brushing habits. If you have any questions, talk to our dentists in Arizona Biltmore Dentistry.