Effective Cavity Prevention Tips
Tooth decay is one of the most widespread chronic diseases in the world. Getting a dental cavity is more than just a minor inconvenience; when left untreated, dental cavities can cause more extensive problems like gum disease and infection. There are plenty of ways you can prevent decay, which can allow you to avoid dental cavity treatment altogether. These easy-to-implement tips can help your mouth and teeth stay healthy and keep your smile bright.
1. Practice a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Brushing twice a day, daily flossing, and rinsing with a cavity-fighting mouthwash is the best way to keep your teeth and mouth in good condition. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush or even better, a round-shaped electric toothbrush, which can help you to clean hard-to-reach places. Gently floss your teeth and use small inter dental brushes if you have areas where food frequently gets stuck. Rinsing with an anti-microbial mouthwash can help keep your breath fresh and kill bacteria that cause dental cavities.
2. Don’t Brush or Floss Too Hard
Although it’s important to brush and floss thoroughly, using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing forcefully can injure your gums and erode the enamel on your teeth. Be firm, but gentle when you brush and floss. If you have any questions about proper technique, ask your St. Petersburg dentist or hygienist for tips on brushing and effective cavity prevention.
3. Use Toothpaste that Contains Fluoride
With all the controversy surrounding fluoride, it can be confusing to know which type of toothpaste to use. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been proven safe and is considered one of the most important advances in public health in the 20th century. It significantly strengthens tooth enamel, prevents cavities, and can even reverse early signs of decay. Although fluoride is safe, always supervise young children to ensure they spit it out after brushing their teeth. If you have sensitive teeth, there are special fluoride toothpastes on the market that can help ease your discomfort and protect your teeth.
4. Visit Your Dentist for Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Visiting your dentist for periodic checkups and cleanings every six months is critical for effective cavity prevention. Regular visits to your dental office enable your dentist and hygienist to detect potential problems and resolve them, which can help you avoid more costly, painful dental issues down the road.
5. Consider Dental Sealants
Painless and easy to apply, dental sealants cover your teeth with a thin protective coating. If your molars are free of decay, dental sealants can shield them by filling in the nooks and crannies in the teeth vulnerable to bacteria. Although many people think dental sealants are just for children, adults may be candidates for them too. When well cared for they can last for years, so ask your dentist if they may be right for you.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking adequate amounts of water is great for your oral health and overall well-being. Most water supplies contain fluoride as well. Dry mouth can lead to decay, so keeping your mouth nice and moist while staying hydrated is a win-win! Not only that, take a sip of water and swishing your mouth with it after a meal or snack washes away particles and bacteria that can cause dental cavities.
7. Avoid Sugar and Eat a Balanced Diet
Avoiding sugary drinks and foods is also a must for keeping your mouth in good shape. Leafy green vegetables, fresh fruit, cheese, and other whole foods are packed with vitamins and nutrients, which can help keep your teeth healthy and strong. If you do have a sweet tooth, rinse your mouth with water after eating and brush your teeth 30 minutes after you finish your treat.
8. Don’t Smoke, Chew Sugar-Free Gum Instead
It’s common knowledge that smoking causes cancer, but it also stains and harms your teeth and gums. Choose sugar-free gum instead – it’s been known to ward off decay and is a good way to beat those cigarette cravings.
Contact Dr. Ferullo for Dental Services in St. Petersburg
Seeing a dentist regularly is vital to your overall health and a key to cavity prevention. As a top dentist in St. Petersburg, Dr. Ferullo and his experienced, compassionate staff provide gentle, comprehensive dental services you can trust. Call 727-822-8101 today to schedule an appointment and be sure to ask about free tooth whitening!
