Tooth decay is among the world’s most common oral health problems. Each year, millions of people from different stretches of the globe suffer from costly and painful cavities. While it can happen to practically anyone, it’s always the kids who are at a higher risk for cavities because many don’t practice good oral hygiene. Thankfully, it’s also highly preventable. Here are five simple tips on how to prevent tooth decay.
Tip #1: Recognise the causes.
The first step in fixing a problem is to understand the root cause. A great deal of our oral health depends on our personal lifestyle and habits. It is, therefore, important to know which specific habits affect the health of your teeth so you can make lifestyle changes accordingly. Do you exercise poor oral hygiene? Do you drink a lot of sodas or eat a lot of acidic foods? Do you grind your teeth? Could it be genetics? Once you know the answer, it will be much easier to correct the problem.
Tip #2: Maintain proper oral hygiene.
Tooth decay occurs because of the food particles and harmful bacteria lingering between your teeth. But brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, flossing once a day, and getting your teeth professionally cleaned by dental professionals at least twice a year can easily prevent it. If you want to take it up a notch, consider rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to dramatically reduce your likelihood of developing cavities.
Tip #3: Limit your sugar and starch intake.
Sugary foods are among the biggest causes of tooth decay both in children and adults. Binge on excessively sweet stuff like candies and sodas, and you increase your chances of having cavities by a large degree. How so? Sugar reacts with the bacteria in your saliva, and this produces acids that weaken your teeth. Starch, on the other hand, sticks to your teeth and gums, and results in plaque build-up.
Tip #4: No snacks before bedtime.
Eating before going to bed can be harmful not just for your health in general but also for your teeth. When you allow food particles to collect and linger in your mouth, you also cause a higher chance of cavities and tooth decay. You want to make sure that the saliva has the opportunity to break down the food in your mouth, and so it’s always smart to leave at least a two-hour gap between food consumption and sleep.
Tip #5: Go visit your dentist.
Visiting a dentist at least twice a year is key to maintaining good oral health. Dentists are always around to examine your teeth and gums, do a thorough cleaning to remove plaque build-up, identify problem spots and early signs of other oral health issues, and make sure everything is in good condition. They are like superheroes for your teeth. So why not pay yours a visit?
How to Prevent Tooth Decay: No Hard Work or Magic Needed
Preventing tooth decay isn’t really a mystery, nor is it as much hard work as most people think. With these five simple tips alone, you sure can keep your teeth free of cavities and decay.
Need help with solving your dental problems? Get in touch with us today.
