Nobody wants to get a cavity. Tooth decay can be painful, expensive and can even result in further dental problems, such as abscesses and gum disease, which require much more complex treatment. However, at Sand Springs Family Dentistry, we believe in preventative and conservative dentistry.
Here are our 9 great dental tips for cavity prevention.
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Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing really is the best way that you can keep your teeth and gums in tip top condition. Adults should choose a toothbrush with soft bristles. Smaller, round heads are better as they allow you to get into all the hard to reach places. Make sure you brush at least twice a day, and if you can, after you have eaten lunch too. It’s a good idea to always keep a toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste in your bag!
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Use a Cavity Fighting Toothpaste
There are a lot of different toothpastes on the market, and each one has a lot of different benefits. With all of the toothpastes on the market, it’s easy to get confused with what is best for your oral care. You should make sure that you used a fluoride-based toothpaste. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can strengthen teeth and help to prevent tooth decay.
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Use Mouthwash and Floss Daily
Mouthwash and floss can help remove microscopic bacteria in places that even the most thorough brushing still might miss. You should ideally use mouthwash every time you brush your teeth and floss daily before bed.
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Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Many people go lengthy periods of time without visiting their dentist because they assume that not being in any pain means everything is fine. Actually, regular trips to the dentist can catch potential problems before they become big, painful and expensive ones. The America Dental Association recommends a check-up and cleaning every 6 months.
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Ask You Dentist About Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are plastic coatings that are placed on the chewing surface of your back teeth to help prevent them from decay. They cover the grooves that are more vulnerable to bacteria and harder to clean, and instead provide a smooth surface that is simpler and easier to brush. If looked after, dental sealants could last you years – a great investment for long-term oral health!
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Hydrate For Healthy Teeth
Water really is the very best thing to drink for the health of your body and your teeth! Most cities now have added fluoride in their water supply, which as we know is vital to building strong teeth. Tap water also helps to supply the mouth and teeth with other useful minerals, flush away bad bacteria and keep the inside of your mouth healthy and hydrated. Water is also sugar free, meaning that you can drink as much as you like without it damaging your teeth!
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Chew Sugar-free Gum
According to the American Dental Association, chewing sugarless gum stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to neutralize and wash away any bacteria or food particles left on your teeth after a meal. It gives you nice breath too!
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Eat Dental Friendly Foods
Yes, that’s right, some foods are actually good for your teeth. These include cheese, vegetables, fresh fruit, unsweetened coffee and even unsweetened tea.
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Cut Out Cavity-Causing Sugar
It comes as no surprise that sugar is ultra-bad news for your teeth. Candy, cakes, canned fruit, sweeteners, fizzy drinks, alcohol, fruit juices and processed foods contain heaps of sugars that are bad for your body and your teeth.
If you want to learn more about cavities and causes of tooth decay, Dr. Whitney and his staff are available to answer your questions. Feel free to message us on Facebook, or contact the team here at Sand Springs Family Dentistry today!
