According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 92% of adults have had their share of cavities at some point in their lives. Cavities can be unbearably painful and lead to multiple problems. It is better to prevent cavities than treat them, so here are five prevention tips to consider.
As obvious as it may sound, brushing your teeth consistently is vital. You should brush your teeth at least twice daily since plaque forms all day long once you have eaten. Make sure to brush all the surfaces of your teeth to remove plaque. Using fluoride-based toothpaste or supplemental fluoride as advised by your dentist office to brush your teeth helps give your teeth maximum protection. Fluoride strengthens your teeth and further prevents tooth decay that causes cavities.
Paying a visit to the dentist's office regularly is a key factor in preventing cavities. Visiting the dentist consistently will help you keep up with your oral hygiene. Early signs of tooth decay and cavities can best be identified by a dentist or under a dental x-ray. You can also get a thorough cleaning with specialized equipment at your dentist office, which better removes plaque and stains from your teeth.
Proper hydration with water instead of sugary drinks is advised. Sugary drinks feed the harmful bacteria in plaque, producing acid that eats away at your enamel. The water flushes away bad bacteria and cleans your teeth. Drinking water that contains fluoride can also further prevent cavities by strengthening your teeth.
Using an antimicrobial mouth rinse after brushing your teeth helps to kill bacteria in your mouth and reduces plaque. Rinsing offers maximum protection by killing the bacteria that form plaque on your teeth. You can also use a mouth rinse after eating to prevent bacteria from feeding on the sugar from food. These bacteria produce acid that attacks your enamel.
Flossing to remove food debris between teeth soon after eating helps protect your teeth from cavities. It can help remove debris that can not be targeted by brushing or rinsing. If food debris is left, it can cause cavities to form in between your teeth. Flossing is the best way to remove food debris between your teeth.
Get in touch with our dentist office for more tips on preventing cavities. We'll ensure you understand the best ways to care for your oral health!
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