There are a few things you should be doing to help protect your teeth from the formation of cavities.
Cavities form when plaque sticks to a tooth, produces acid, and eats through the enamel. This creates a hole in the teeth which can get larger and eventually affect the root of the tooth if not taken care of promptly. Cavities are usually caused by poor dental hygienic practices and the consumption of carbohydrates. However, there are a few steps you can take to prevent their formation!
1. Watching What You Eat and Drink
Frequent snacking on sugary and starchy foods during the day will leave acids on your teeth that will increase your risk of developing cavities. This constant eating also lengthens the amount of time that those acids linger in your teeth since there isn’t adequate time for them to wash away. Cut back on the carbs and sugars in your snacks, and don’t forget to watch your drinking patterns either. Instead of sugary sodas and energy drinks, drink lots of plain water instead.
2. Keeping Your Appointments with Your Dentist
The CDC estimates that as many as 24% of American adults ages 20-64 have cavities which are untreated. If you don’t have a regular dental checkup scheduled and it as been a long time since your last one, it may be time to get a visit scheduled. Dentist appointments are one of the best ways to prevent cavities. Not only will the dentist check your mouth for cavities through X-rays and visual examination, they also have some treatments available which fight cavities and their causes. Dental cleanings remove the plaque and tartar buildup which contribute to cavity formation.
3. Practice Great Dental Hygiene
The best way to prevent cavities is to utilize great dental hygiene techniques. Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste. Floss regularly and rinse with mouthwash. Ask your dentist whether a prescription mouthwash may be helpful in reducing your risk for cavities. By implementing good dental hygienic practices, you can help protect your teeth from the cavities which are caused by plaque and acid.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Oral Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, and Pinterest.