Cavities are caused by acid attacks by bacteria. When bacteria feed on sugar and starch, they produce acids as byproducts which causes these cavities. So cavities are something more than holes. It has been found that these microorganisms create acids for up to 20 minutes after each meal. The acid so produced erodes the enamel layer on the teeth. When minerals of the teeth dissolve more quickly than saliva can replenish them, the teeth suffer decomposition with cavities. The good news is you can prevent cavities before they arise with proper oral hygiene practices and routine dental cleaning in dental clinics in Chennai. Here are 12 essential tips for preventing cavities from forming.
Tip 1-4: Master Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste – Target the entire teeth surfaces and brush for 2 full minutes.
- Floss once a day – Remove plaque between teeth where brushes cannot reach. Ideally floss before or after brushing.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash – A normal mouthwash available in any stores can kill the lingering bacteria and can freshen the breath. Use medicated mouthwash only when recommended by a dentist.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months – It needs to be understood that worn bristles of the tooth brush lose cleaning power. Hence changing them once in 3 months is highly recommended.
Tip 5-7: Upgrade Your Diet to Fight Decay
What you eat is very much important when it comes to both general health and oral health. The enamel layer is weakened by acidic beverages like soda and sugary snacks for hours. Choose foods that are good for your teeth and increase saliva naturally. Saliva keeps rinsing your mouth naturally.
Food like cheese, yogurt and crunchy vegetables like celery and apple are natural cleansers. Consuming them can remove plaque and other pockets that are found superficially over the teeth.
Water neutralizes acids and removes food particles after meals. If you want to allow the enamel to remineralize, the best solution is to cut back on snacking.
Tip 8-10: Leverage Professional Care and Sealants
Hidden places are missed by even the best oral care we perform at home. Hardened tartar that harbors bacteria can be removed only by professional dental cleaning.. In order to prevent decay in deep grooves of molars, dentists will apply thin protective sealants (pit and fissure sealants) after a deep cleaning. This sealant is very effective on children and teenagers.
Fluoride treatment strengthens the enamel layer. If your dentist recommends a fluoride treatment during a dental visit, get it done. Teeth cleaning should be scheduled every six months during the regular dental visit. However high-risk patients may require cleaning every three months. Go by the advice your dentist has offered.
Tip 11-12: Adopt Smart Lifestyle Habits
After meals you can choose to chew sugar-free gum with xylitol for ten minutes. This increases saliva production and when saliva washes the oral area, it inhibits bacterial growth. Do not use tobacco because it dries out your mouth, discolors your teeth and increases the risk of tooth decay. Also drink plenty of water. Dry mouth easily encourages cavities from forming.
Never ignore any early warning indicators like white spots or sensitivity. Any preliminary damage can be treated easily before it develops into a cavity. This can be made possible only with early intervention. As said, tooth fillings or fluoride varnish can give you a helping hand.
Your Cavity-Free Action Plan Starts Today
Drilling is always inferior to prevention. For a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth, follow these 12 tips and do not forget your dental cleaning routine. Enjoy the assurance of a cavity-free future by starting today to protect your smile!
