Around the world, an estimated 2 billion people suffer from some form of tooth decay on their permanent teeth, making it one of the most common issues people face.¹ Tooth decay can lead to the development of cavities and gum disease. Thankfully, there are tooth decay prevention tips you can turn to. Learn more about the various steps you can take to help keep your teeth and mouth healthy.
Understanding Tooth Decay: What It Is and What Causes It
Tooth decay is damage that occurs to a tooth’s enamel. Your mouth is full of bacteria, some beneficial and some harmful. Harmful bacteria create acids that start to wear away at the enamel, weakening your teeth and causing a cavity to form if left behind after brushing and flossing.
If you don’t get treatment for the cavity, the decay can progress and cause other issues. Poor dental hygiene is the most common cause of tooth decay.
Tooth Decay Prevention Tips: Taking Steps to Avoid Decay
If you’re worried about these common issues, we can offer some reliable tips for preventing tooth decay.
Oral Hygiene Practices for Cavity Prevention
Because bacteria cause the most damage to your teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene practices is the most effective way of combating tooth decay.
When you brush and floss your teeth, you remove food particles that can combine with the acids the bacteria create to form plaque. Plaque damages your teeth and continues to build up and lead to the development of tartar.
You want to brush your teeth at least twice daily for four minutes, preferably after every meal. You should also floss twice a day.
Choosing Foods and Drinks That Promote Dental Health
What you eat can also have a significant impact on your oral health. You want to stick with foods that help keep your teeth clean and do not allow the bacteria in your mouth to produce harmful acids.
Choose fibrous foods, including:
- Apples
- Pears
- Leafy greens
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Celery
These foods help keep your teeth clean while also neutralizing the acids that cause decay. They can also increase the flow of saliva, which has natural properties that help bring minerals to your teeth and fight off bacteria.
Regular Dental Check-Ups and Cleanings
Getting regular check-ups and cleanings can help you avoid tooth decay. Your dentist will be able to catch any issues that appear while also preventing decay from starting in the first place.
Brushing your teeth at home doesn’t compare to getting a professional dental cleaning. Using the latest technologies and the best products, your dental hygienist can remove plaque and tartar in even the hardest-to-reach areas to keep bacteria from causing damage. How often you get these cleanings and check-ups depends on your oral health, age, and other factors, but most people need at least two preventative dental visits each year.
Benefits of Fluoride in Preventing Tooth Decay
Fluoride is a natural element that can combat the development of tooth decay. It can even benefit teeth that have already been damaged, helping them remineralize.²
Fluoride can make your enamel more resistant to acid attacks. These attacks are what cause damage and lead to tooth decay. You want to choose fluoride toothpaste and consider getting fluoride treatments from your dental expert. Fluoride treatments include the application of gels, foams, or varnishes to your teeth.
Preventing Tooth Decay Is Possible
These tooth decay prevention tips can help you avoid frustrating oral health issues. At Empire Dental Care, Dr. Tehila Cohen is dedicated to assisting people dealing with oral health concerns. She focuses on offering gentle care and effective preventive treatments to each patient.
To learn more about the services available or to make an appointment, contact Empire Dental Care today. 585-671-1650
Sources:
[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4733546/
