3 Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay
March 10, 2020 12:45 am |
A cavity, or hole, indicates that the enamel of a tooth is permanently damaged. Fortunately, cavities can be fixed with various restorative treatments, which depend on the decay’s severity. Treatment could include dental fillings, root canal therapy, a dental crown, or extraction. However, did you know that there are ways to prevent tooth decay from ever progressing to a cavity?
In this blog post, we’ve put together a list of handy tips on how to prevent tooth decay.
1. MAINTAIN AT-HOME DENTAL HYGIENE
Despite its simplicity, a good oral hygiene routine is hugely effective in preventing tooth decay. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Additionally, floss at least once a day, making sure to gently push deep enough to get underneath your gums and not just between your teeth.
Daily brushing and flossing will help keep plaque from accumulating. This is important because plaque produces acids that damage enamel, the outer layer of teeth. Other oral health habits to prevent plaque buildup include eating a balanced diet, chewing only sugar-free, and avoiding tobacco products.
2. EXPOSE YOUR TEETH TO FLUORIDE
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps keep enamel hard and strong by aiding in the remineralization process. Many cities add fluoride to their community water supply, so be sure to drink plenty of tap water. If you drink tap water, brush with a fluoridated toothpaste, and rinse with a mouthwash that contains fluoride, you’re likely getting a healthy dose of fluoride to prevent tooth decay. But we’ll let you know if we think you’d benefit from a fluoride varnish or a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste!
3. DON’T SKIP ON DENTAL VISITS
When you’re not in any tooth pain, do you find it easy to forget about visiting the dentist? You might think there’s no point in even going if you don’t have an oral health concern or dental emergency. But that’s not true. You should be visiting Optima Dental Spa at least two times a year for a regular check-up and professional cleaning. We can suggest additional ways to prevent tooth decay, track areas of demineralized enamel, and clean off any buildup of plaque and tartar to help you maintain superb oral health.
COMBAT DECAY AT OPTIMA DENTAL SPA!
Interested in more tips to prevent tooth decay? Optima Dental Spa is here to help you, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a longtime patient. We have locations in the Pearl District, Lake Oswego, Bellevue, and Gig Harbor. Schedule an appointment to discuss your specific dental needs.
Tags: prevent, tooth decay
Categorised in: Dental Tips