Tooth decay or cavity isn’t uncommon; still, people know little about its prevention. Children are often susceptible to developing cavities due to poor eating habits and dental hygiene; however, adults can struggle with tooth decay because of unhealthy habits such as smoking.
While small cavities cause no problems, they continue to affect teeth when left untreated, eventually requiring root canal treatments. Fortunately, dental treatments are available from leading dentists, like Dr. Tatiana Lucas, who guide dental patients on taking care of oral health.
Besides scheduling dental appointments every three months, consider following these tips to maintain dental and oral health and prevent cavities.
Brush your teeth twice a day
Cleaning teeth twice a day can reduce the need for emergency dental visits. While no rule says when you should brush your teeth, doing it in the morning and before bed at night is advisable. It’s also recommended to wait at least thirty minutes after mealtimes as it allows saliva to neutralize the acid from whatever we eat or drink.
Use mouthwash every day
People believe mouthwash is for freshening up their breath. But that’s only half the truth. An antibacterial mouthwash removes bacteria, reducing the chances of developing plaque and tooth decay. Even if you use fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash is suggested as it helps prevent gingivitis and enamel damage.
Stay away from acid
Acid is responsible for eroding teeth’s protective enamel. Since your body doesn’t rebuild lost enamel, there is no way to undo the damage. What’s worse is that bacteria thrive in an acidic environment. If you don’t want to deal with dental problems like tooth decay, be mindful of what you eat or drink.
Cut down on sugar
If you have a sweet tooth, it’s time to start paying attention to how much sugar you intake. Sugar, including natural sugar from fruits and honey, is one of the primary causes of cavities. Start cutting down on sugar to starve bacteria that flourish in an oral environment.
If you need more tips on taking care of your oral health, schedule an appointment with a leading dentist, like Dr. Lucas, at once.
