Cavities are most famous term known for tooth decay. According to American Dental Association (ADA), tooth decay (Cavities/Caries) is a destruction of the tooth enamel. It occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) such as milk, pop, raisins, cakes or candy are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. Prevention is the key to a healthy lifestyle.
How Do I Prevent Tooth Decay?
You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:
Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner.
Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.
Check with your dentist about use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination.
Your dentist follows the latest trends on methods of prevention and treatment of oral health. Ask your dentist if your current diet should change to reduce risk of future tooth decay.
I have cavities, now what?
If you are suffering because of cavities, waiting is the worst you could do for your oral health. If not treated, tooth decay might cause a permanent tooth loss, and even affecting the neighboring teeth. Today, dentist have access to composites and material which could restore the tooth with natural look and feel. These composites are strong enough to replace dental amalgams forever. Learn more about tooth restoration and fillings head to metal free dentistry section.
Brushing your teeth is very important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Knowing how to brush your teeth properly is essential to maintain your beautiful smile. Toothbrushes have a long history, and now we are witnessing all modern toothbrushes with electric vibrations, rotations, and even smart toothbrushes. However, knowing how to operate your toothbrush plays a crucial role in your dental hygiene. Wrong brushing might leave bacteria, or even worse, push the bacteria into your gum which will cause periodontal disease. Moreover, if not brushed properly, or change your toothbrush on a regular basis, your toothbrush might make your gum sensitive to brushing, and in some cases cause them bleed. Therefore always ask your dentist to show you proper way of brushing your teeth, and most dentists would love to share it with you. Don’t be ashamed to ask your dentist, even if it is as simple as brushing your teeth, or what kind of toothpaste is recommended for your teeth. Here is a video that will guide you on how to brush your teeth properly.
And of course, don’t forget your regular dental cleanings. Routine dental cleanings are ways of removing plaque and tartar that get built on your teeth overtime, and regular toothbrush and toothpaste are not capable of removing. By visiting your dentist on a regular basis you could prevent tooth cavities and decay.
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