5 Effective Tips on How to Prevent Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay and caries, are extremely common among people of all ages. This condition develops when the number of bacteria in your mouth increases significantly and the acids produced by these bacteria soften and eat away your tooth enamel.

Since both children and adults may neglect the condition of their teeth and gums, they can easily develop tooth decay. Fortunately, there are certain ways to reduce your risk of cavities. Here is a list of five effective tips on how to prevent cavities.

1. Brush and floss your teeth properly

If you want to have healthy teeth and gums, it is essential to maintain proper oral hygiene. This means that you need to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning before meals and in the evening after meals. It is important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles since firm bristles can scratch and remove your tooth enamel.

Unfortunately, many people think that flossing is not essential so it can be skipped or performed from time to time. The truth is that cavities are more likely to develop on the sides of the teeth. This is because even the most thorough tooth brushing can't completely remove all the food particles and dental plaque between your teeth.

2. Maintain a healthy diet

The foods and drinks you consume daily can have a great impact on the condition of your oral cavity. That's why it is recommended to avoid sweet, starchy, and acidic foods and drinks since they promote tooth decay. Additionally, it is better to limit the consumption of sticky foods since they can linger in your mouth for a long time and feed the cavity-causing bacteria.

Fortunately, certain foods and drinks can improve your oral health. For example, regular consumption of dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.) can provide your teeth and bones with calcium. If you have lactose intolerance, you can receive the necessary calcium from leafy greens. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are also beneficial since they promote saliva production and remove dental plaque from your teeth.

3. Rinse your mouth

There is a common misconception that only people who have a sweet tooth are prone to tooth decay. But the truth is that many foods that remain in your mouth for a long time create a perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria. That's why it is better to rinse your mouth with plain water after meals. You can also use mouthwashes that reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth and refresh your breath.

4. Consider fluoride treatment

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps strengthen your tooth enamel and even reverse the initial stages of tooth decay. You can get fluoride through a tap or bottled water. Certain kinds of toothpaste and mouthwash can also contain fluoride.

However, the most effective way to use this mineral is to undergo fluoride treatment. During this procedure, a dentist applies high-concentration fluoride to your teeth. Fluoride treatment is extremely beneficial to children and adults who are prone to cavities

5. Visit a dentist on a regular basis

It is important to understand that tooth decay can develop asymptomatically. If you associate cavities with toothache, you should know that such cavities are quite deep and have reached the inner sensitive layers of the tooth. A professional dentist can recognize early signs of tooth decay and perform the treatment. That's why it is essential to visit a dentist twice a year for examinations.

The bottom line

Even though tooth decay seems to be a minor health issue, it can destroy the whole tooth and significantly affect your well-being. Proper oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental exams can help prevent the development of cavities and many other oral issues.