How To Prevent Cavities?

Cavities, otherwise known as dental caries, are holes in the teeth that are usually caused by decay. Tooth decay is caused by plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the surfaces of the teeth. When sugar is eaten, the bacteria in plaque use the sugar to produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. Over time, these acids create a hole in the tooth enamel. The bacteria then move into the deeper layers of the tooth, called the dentin. The dentin layer is less mineralized and softer than enamel. The bacteria attack the dentin, creating cavities that grow larger over time.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities are caused when plaque and bacteria are present on the teeth. The bacteria produce acid that eats away at the tooth, causing a hole in it. The acid attacks the tooth at the enamel level, which means it’s largely preventable by brushing and flossing daily.

Tips To Prevent Cavities.

• Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily is essential for preventing cavities. Brushing helps remove plaque from your teeth, where it can cause cavities. Flossing also removes plaque from between your teeth.

By brushing and flossing, you remove plaque, a sticky substance that builds up on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed, it eventually hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.

• Get fluoride treatments.

There are two ways to get fluoride into your system. One is topical, from toothpaste, mouthwash, and fluoride treatments. The other is systemic, from your diet.

• Eat a healthy diet.

Consume foods that are rich in nutrients. Avoid foods that are high in added sugar. Sugary foods provide bacteria in your mouth with the fuel they need to thrive. A diet low in sugar will help keep bacteria levels low.

• See your dentist regularly.

Seeing your dentist regularly is important not just for your oral health but for your overall health, too. Dental cavities can be a sign that there are other health issues in your mouth that are developing beneath the surface.

• Don’t chew on ice.

Ice is incredibly hard and can affect the protective enamel of your teeth. When you chew on ice, you chip off the enamel, which can expose the sensitive tissue that lies underneath.

• Avoid dry mouth.

A dry mouth can be caused by several things, including medications, allergies, or stress. A dry mouth can lead to tooth decay because the mouth isn’t producing enough saliva to wash away food particles and neutralize acids. 

Importance of Dental Checkups.

Dental checkups are essential to maintaining the health of your mouth. During these appointments, your dentist will clean your teeth and evaluate the health of your gums. He will also look for signs of decay and dental damage.

Signature Smiles, located in Louisville, and Designing Smiles, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, have expert dentists who offer the best dental care facilities to patients with the help of modern amenities. Call us at 502 326-1800 and book an appointment with our practice to learn more about our dental care services.