Cavities may be common, but they are anything but enjoyable or harmless. When plaque sticks to your tooth it produces an acid. This acid then eats away at the protective coating on your tooth known as enamel. When your tooth is no longer able to keep this acid out, it eats away until there is a hole, or cavity left in your tooth. If left untreated, the cavity will get worse and worse until it can affect the root and entire health of your mouth.
Cavities must be fixed by a trip to the dentist to fill in the hole and stop the decay. They are often quick procedures, but with busy schedules and the anxiety some people feel about the dentist, avoiding cavities all together is the best course of action. You can easily prevent cavities with these three simple steps.
#1. Brush and Floss Regularly
You’ve heard it before and you’ll likely hear it again because brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is the best way to prevent cavities. Brush your teeth after meals and before bed so that the damaging acids are removed before they do damage. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently “massage” each tooth, replace your toothbrush regularly,and don’t forget to brush your tongue!
Flossing is just as important as brushing, and once you get in the habit it will become one of the easiest ways you can prevent cavities.
#2. Watch What You Eat and Drink
Eating lots of sugary and starchy foods lead to more cavities because of the acids found in them. Eat less sugary foods and instead choose to snack on fruit or veggies, which will help you feel better overall while preventing cavities.
You should also try to drink more water. As you do this, it’ll naturally lead to you drinking less sugary and acidic drinks. The acid found in coffee, tea and soda are also harmful to your teeth. If you factor in added sugar in those drinks your teeth become even more susceptible to cavities. You don’t have to give up some of your favorite drinks altogether, just limit them. And when you do have them, try drinking from a straw to keep the acid and sugars off of your teeth. You can also sip water while drinking your beverage, and rinse your mouth afterward to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
#3. Visit The Dentist Regularly
Lastly, regularly visiting your dentist will help to keep you accountable with your brushing, flossing, eating and drinking habits. It will also give your dentist the opportunity to catch cavities or other oral health issues early and before they spread or worsen. When your dentist cleans your teeth and removes plaque and tartar buildup, he or she is helping you to prevent cavities.
It is important to find a good dentist, one that you trust and look forward to visiting, so that you can prevent cavities and keep your mouth as healthy as possible. If you don’t have a dental office you go to, you may be tempted to find a cheap dentist, or even free dental care. While finding a dentist by insurance is an important consideration, you should also look at a list of local dentists.
If you’re in the Orem area you will see the Crawford Leishman Dental on that list. Not only will you receive excellent dental care, but you will be greeted warmly and treated like family from the moment you walk in the doors. Look no further for your cavity prevention and care for your oral health.
