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Tooth Decay Prevention

Tooth decay is a disease that develops over time when bacteria in your mouth interact with the sugars you consume. The bacteria react to sugar by producing acids that break down the minerals in your teeth, resulting in cavities. Dental professionals can address decay by removing it and filling the tooth with different types of fillings or crowns. To prevent decay, it's crucial to follow good dental hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing twice daily, scheduling regular dental check-ups, controlling your diet, and receiving fluoride treatment.

Sealants

Cleaning the grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars is a challenging task as bacteria and food particles tend to accumulate in those areas. When bacteria interact with food, it produces acids that corrode the tooth enamel and result in cavities. To prevent this, tooth sealants made of resin material are applied to molars, premolars, and any cavity-prone area. Sealants seal the grooves and prevent the accumulation of bacteria and food particles. They last for several years but require regular checkups to ensure their effectiveness.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a helpful substance that strengthens teeth and prevents decay. Drinking water that contains fluoride regularly, along with daily brushing and flossing, can significantly reduce the number of cavities. Most public water sources have fluoridated water. If needed, your dentist can assess the level of fluoride in your main drinking water source and suggest fluoride supplements. You can also find fluoride in various toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss options.

Brushing

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small strip of fluoridated toothpaste. Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle, move the brush in small, circular motions across the teeth.
Carefully brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth, making sure to clean the back teeth and between the teeth.
Use the same circular motion to clean the inside of the upper and lower teeth.
Brush the inside of the top and bottom front teeth by angling the head of the toothbrush up and down and brushing in a small, circular motion.
Finish by brushing your tongue and the roof of your mouth before rinsing.

Flossing

Floss at least once a day. Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser and wrap the ends tightly around your middle fingers.
Gently guide the floss between all teeth to the gum line, including the back teeth, to remove any food particles or plaque.
Unwrap clean floss from around your fingers as you go so that you have used the floss from beginning to end.

Diet Control

A healthy, well-balanced diet can minimize or even completely prevent cavities and other dental problems. Limit sugary and starchy foods like candies, cookies, chips, and crackers. Healthier foods like vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and cheeses are better for overall health and can promote stronger, healthier teeth.

Dental Visits

It would be best to visit your general dentist twice yearly (once every six months). To maintain a healthy smile, it is vital to have professional cleanings and regular check-ups. Your dentist will examine your teeth and evaluate existing dental problems and proposed treatment. If you have a dental emergency, you should call your dentist immediately.