5 Basic Tips for Preventing Cavities
Cavities are one of the most common dental ailments in the United States- the CDC estimates that 90% of adults age 20 and older have had at least one cavity in their lives. Untreated cavities and poor dental health can progress into much more serious conditions and tooth decay.
Luckily, cavities can be prevented with good dental habits. Keep reading for everything you need to know about preventing cavities before they happen.
1. Preventing Cavities with Regular Brushing
Many people know the importance of brushing for two minutes, twice a day for healthy teeth and gums. Regular brushing is essential for preventing plaque buildup and reducing daily bacteria buildup.
But, did you know many people brush their teeth incorrectly? Brushing your teeth using the correct method is just as important as brushing regularly.
Using an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Move the toothbrush back and forth on all sides of the teeth- inside, outside, and in the bite. Rotate the brush and make short up-and-down strokes over the outside surfaces of your teeth to make sure you clean in between each tooth.
2. Flossing Every Day
Flossing is one of the most underutilized tools for preventing cavities. Flossing is essential for all-around dental health for a multitude of reasons. These reasons include gum health, plaque prevention, and cavity prevention.
Keep the floss tight and gently work it between your teeth. Don’t be too rough on your gums, as this can cause unnecessary irritation. Work between each of the teeth, including the back.
You should work flossing into your daily dental routine. Once you pick it up, it is an easy habit for cavity prevention!
3. Cut Back on Sugary Drinks
The bacteria in your teeth feed on sugar, so lots of sugary drinks day in and day out adds up! As these bacteria build up, they can contribute to enamel erosion, gingivitis, and tooth decay.
Additionally, many of your favorite sodas and juices have high amounts of acids in addition to sugars, which contributes even further to enamel decay and cavities.
Daily consumption of high-sugar, high-acid drinks can add up quickly. Cutting back can help prevent bacteria buildup.
4. Ditch Your Bad Dental Habits
Smoking is very hard on your health, generally and orally. Smoking is shown to drastically increase the risks of oral cancers, gum disease, and tooth decay. Even smokeless tobacco increases your risk of these diseases.
Quitting tobacco products is a great way to improve overall wellbeing and prevent cavities. The sooner you are able to quit using these products, the better your long-term oral health will be.
5. Visit the Dentist Regularly
Daily oral healthcare is critical for cavity prevention, but it has its limits. Normal daily products cannot do as thorough a job as dental equipment. Two professional dental cleanings per year is the best way to guarantee you avoid cavities.
Dentists are also able to screen for any dental concerns you may be unaware of, such as early signs of gum disease. Getting ahead of dental problems is the best way to ensure effective treatment before things progress.
Pick a dentist with good reviews in your area, and build a relationship there. A trusty dental team will be sure to keep your beautiful teeth cavity-free.
Keep Your Smile Beautiful With Good Dental Hygiene
Good cavity prevention can save you some major headaches down the line! Keeping your teeth cavity-free requires daily brushing and flossing, routine dental visits, and healthy habits. With some easy switches, you can keep your smile beautiful.
Preventing cavities starts with you! Improve your dental health and check out the rest of the blog for more great tips!
