6 Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay

Keeping Tooth Decay At Bay

Tooth decay is when disease-causing bacteria destroy the dental hard tissues. Tooth decay, or dental cavities, are among the most prevalent oral health conditions that significantly affect one’s quality of life and demand huge expenditures on its treatment. According to the US Centers for Disease Control, over 26% of US adults have untreated tooth cavities. 

Long-standing dental cavities can result in various complications such as pain, difficulty in chewing, and even tooth loss. However, the good news is that tooth decay is preventable. In this blog, Dr. Shamos from Havasu Dental Center offers various valuable tips that can help you fight tooth decay and enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile. 

1. Brush Twice a Day 

One of the most effective tools in the fight against tooth decay is regular brushing. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush using gentle force. The American Dental Association also recommends using fluoride-containing toothpaste for adults, as it provides superior protection against tooth cavities than non-fluoride ones. ‍

2. Flossing At Least Once Daily 

Although brushing is effective in cleaning teeth, the bristles of a toothbrush often fail to penetrate the tight spaces between the teeth, making them vulnerable spots for tooth decay. That is why you should floss at least once a day to remove food debris and bacteria from the interdental spaces, thereby reducing the chances of tooth decay. 

3. Eating a Tooth-friendly Diet 

A tooth-friendly diet goes a long way in preventing teeth cavities. In addition, a diet that contains essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, C, D, and E helps strengthen our teeth and makes our bodies more resistant to various medical and dental infections, including dental cavities. Besides, green vegetables and fibrous fruits also provide a teeth-cleaning effect and help prevent tooth decay and gum inflammation. 

4. Consider Dental Sealants 

Dentists recommend dental sealants as a preventive dentistry measure for individuals at a higher risk of developing teeth cavities. A sealant is a thin coating over the biting surfaces of the back teeth that prevents food impaction and bacterial penetration, factors that cause tooth cavities. ‍

5. Fluoride Treatment 

Fluoride is considered one of the most effective options for preventing tooth decay. Dentists typically apply fluoride over the teeth in gels or varnishes. However, sometimes, dentists may also recommend dietary fluoride supplements in severe deficiency. In some US states, water fluoridation is also performed to prevent tooth decay in the community. 

6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Whenever you visit your dentist for a checkup, they will perform a detailed clinical examination to look for underlying dental issues, including teeth cavities. In this way, your dentist will be able to detect tooth decay before it causes damage to the tooth and will treat it accordingly. Therefore, regular dental checkups help you enjoy good dental health and save your hard-earned money on expensive dental treatment. 

Tooth decay can cause serious oral health problems, but it can be easily prevented. Simply follow the tips given in this blog, and you won’t have to worry about dental cavities anymore! Be sure to schedule your bi-annual teeth cleaning with our expert hygienists at Havasu Dental Center by contacting our office!