6 Tips you must not skip to Prevent Tooth Decay

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Brushing and flossing your teeth prevents cavities. You have heard this so many times. Just about everyone knows that they should brush and floss their teeth. But is that enough to prevent the decay of your tooth? Brushing and flossing do keep your teeth healthy one out of four adults and a greater percentage of teenagers have cavities. Cavities may create excruciating pain if you fail to address them at the right time. They are usually caused by bacteria that build up on the food particles stuck in the teeth. The bacteria usually attack the enamel of the teeth when you feed on meals and beverages with high sugar content and eventually expose the nerve endings and roots, causing pain.

Preventing tooth decay is easy if you follow simple dental hygiene. Besides, you must visit the dentist twice a year to know how to maintain oral health. Here are some tips you cannot skip to prevent the decay of teeth.

1. Brushing the teeth regularly

The food particles tend to stay within the teeth every time you eat even if it is a mini-meal.  These food particles attract bacteria quickly. So, brushing your teeth twice a day after meals protects your teeth from decay. You can brush your teeth after breakfast and dinner for healthy teeth.

2. Flossing daily

Not many people floss their teeth regularly even if it is one of the commonest techniques to prevent decay. Flossing removes the food particles that stick between your teeth and removes the debris. You can choose from several different flossing options such as brushes, string, and devices. Go for it even if this practice feels like a tedious chore. As you get used to it, you walk towards cavity-free teeth and feel relaxed.

3. Avoid sugary and acidic food

Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugary food particles and are responsible for tooth decay. So, consume less sugar and reduce the chances of developing cavities. Similarly, keep beverages and acidic foods at bay if you want cavity-free teeth. For adults, it may mean consuming fewer snacks and for kids, it is saying no to candies, sugary beverages, and pastries.

4. Visit your dentist and dental hygienist

Not all dental cavities can be detected without X-rays. So, visit your dentist for regular cleaning and check-ups, and stay at the top when it comes to oral hygiene. Besides, you can discuss with the dentist ways to strengthen the teeth. The hygienist, on the other hand, provides tips on brushing and flossing and their correct techniques. 

5. Drink water

Water helps your body stay hydrated, allows your body to get rid of waste, and keeps the teeth healthy. For oral health, drink water containing fluorine and improve your smile.

6. Leave smoking

You are aware of the health problems that smoking initiates. However, very few people are aware of the impact of smoking on the teeth, gums, and mouth. Smoking not only leads to stains on the teeth but results in gum diseases, loss of teeth, and eventually oral cancer.

7. Use a mouthwash

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly keeps your teeth healthy but for fresh breath, start using mouthwash. Mouthwash penetrates areas where floss and toothbrush cannot reach. The ingredients in the mouthwash reduce the acidity inside the mouth and eliminate harmful bacteria and eventually help in preventing tooth decay. Reducing tooth decay is an important aspect of maintaining oral hygiene. So, take time to ensure that you maintain dental health and prevent cavities in the teeth.

Theresa Perez

Theresa Perez is a seasoned writer for the health industry dedicated to providing fact-based health information. She sources concise facts from authoritative sources to ensure maximum credibility and shares guidelines to lead a healthy lifestyle.