9 Tips To Prevent Cavities
Posted: Aug 12, 2020 in
A white spot appearing on the teeth enamel is a sign of the early stages of a cavity . At this stage, tooth decay, can be stopped or reversed. If the treatment of tooth decay does not occur, the enamel may be damaged and form a cavity.
Cavities are an important oral health issue for everyone. Cavities can form when the sticky bacterium substance called “plaque” forms on teeth and gums. Food and drink containing sugar is also a source of food for plaque, which produces acids that attack the tooth enamel and cause the tooth to rot over time.
Here are 9 tips to prevent cavities from developing:
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Snacking on sweet and starchy foods causes repeated acid attacks on teeth. More saliva is produced during meals, so eating sugary foods in this time is superior to help break down the ensuing acid. Healthier snack possibilities include cheese, fruit and veggies. - If you drink soda, use a straw
If you drink soda, use a straw when you can. This reduces the sugary and acidic soda that can damage your teeth. Although diet soda does have less sugar then the regular soda, it contains a lot of acid, which may cause tooth decay. Water is the best drink for good oral health. - Drink water after eating
Water provides an excellent mouth rinse, washing away both bacteria and the remains of food that can become plaque. Water also neutralizes the effects of acidic and sweet foods. Tap water in some cities also includes fluoride, which also helps prevent tooth decay in a similar manner to fluoride toothpaste. Also, tooth decay is likelier to occur in a dry mouth, so drinking water frequenting is a good way to prevent this. - Use fluoride toothpaste
Using fluoride toothpaste twice a day provides a good level of protection from tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral found in soil, water and some foods that can avert, reduce or stop early tooth decay. Fluoride decreases the ability of the plaque bacteria to produce acid and avert mineral loss in the teeth’s dental enamel. - Get your teeth cleaned regularly
Regular teeth cleanings and oral exams are a very important part of maintaining good dental health. Professional teeth cleanings help to eliminate plaque. A dentist can help spot problems early when they are simpler and less expensive to treat. Besides cleaning teeth, most dentists also assist you with preventive care. Your dentist tell you the best cleaning techniques to improve your oral hygiene routines. - Eat healthier snacks like crunchy vegetables and fruit
Foods with fiber — like carrots, celery, apples, and other fruits and vegetables — have a cleaning effect for your mouth and teeth as you eat them. The crisp texture of these foods wipes away bacteria that can cause tooth decay. The amount of chewing needed to eat fibrous food also stimulates an increase in saliva production, which is a natural defense against cavities. - Brush teeth twice a day
An important part of your oral hygiene routine is brushing your teeth at least twice a day. One of these brushings should happen before heading off to bed. Brushing must be avoided right after consuming acidic foods and drink – such as fruit, soda or wine — to give saliva an opportunity to neutralize the acid. If you are unable to brush your teeth after a meal, rinsing your mouth with water is a good practice. - Consume more calcium
Good sources of calcium include dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables, almonds, some fortified drinks, like soy milk and rice milk, as well as in canned salmon or sardines with bones. Since teeth are comprised of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals, eating calcium rich foods can help protect teeth against acids and rebuild dental enamel. - Floss your teeth
Floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing removes plaque and particles of food stuck to your teeth and gums. The area between teeth is especially exposed to cavity formation but is tough to reach with toothbrush bristles. Flossing at least once a day is just as important as brushing your teeth.