Simple Things You Can Do to Prevent Cavities

Cavities are the most common dental problem. At the first sign of a toothache, most people visit the local dentist for a solution. Cavities are nothing but small holes in your teeth. These holes can eventually cause severe toothaches. They are caused due to tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused when bacteria in the mouth manage to erode the enamel layer of your teeth. It results in the formation of holes called cavities. 

Cavities are more common among children due to improper dental hygiene. Here are some simple ways to prevent cavities:

Brush Your Teeth Regularly

When you brush, you’re removing plaque from your teeth and freshening your breath. This helps to prevent cavities by slowing the rate of cavity formation. However, brushing alone won’t completely prevent cavities. 

If you’re serious about preventing cavities, you’ll brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth strong. 

Unfortunately, you cannot reverse the damage from a cavity. Plaque and tartar will build up in your enamel until the area is weakened enough for the decay to break through it. For this reason, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits now to reduce your risk of a cavity in the future.

Floss Daily

Brushing your teeth in the morning and at night can help you maintain your oral health, but brushing alone won’t keep your mouth free of cavities. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, flossing is even more important than brushing when it comes to preventing cavities. This is because food particles get caught between teeth when you eat, and if you don’t floss, those particles can linger in your mouth. These bacteria can then cause decay.

To get rid of debris stuck between your teeth and improve your chances of avoiding tooth decay, make sure you floss at least once a day.

Rinse Your Mouth with Water after Meals

After you eat, food particles can get stuck in the tiny cracks and crevices in your teeth. These leftover bits can lead to tooth decay if you don’t clear them away. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating can help dislodge these particles before they have time to turn into cavities. Water also helps dilute the acidic environment in your mouth, which can lead to enamel erosion.

Simply swish water around in your mouth for about a minute after you finish your meal. If you don’t have time to brush or floss after a meal, rinsing with water is the next best thing you can do to prevent cavities.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a variety of foods from each of the five food groups helps promote good overall health and may help lower your risk for cavities. While eating well doesn’t completely prevent tooth decay, poor nutrition can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to gum disease and other issues that may lead to decay. Avoid sugary foods and beverages like candy, cookies, soda, juice, and sports drinks. Limit how often you eat between meals, and if you do snack, choose nutritious foods like cheese, vegetables, or nuts.

See Your Dentist Regularly

When patients visit the dentist, it’s usually for a checkup and cleaning. These regular appointments give dentists the opportunity to examine your mouth for signs of decay. Your dentist also thoroughly cleans your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach. By seeing your dentist every three to six months, you can help prevent cavities from forming in the first place.

To learn more about good oral care, you can schedule your appointment with our dentist by calling us at (512) 358-1215 or visiting our dental office. We will be happy to guide you further.