Cavities, also known as dental caries, are among the most common threats to dental and overall oral health. Cavities are caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth.
Fortunately, with some healthy habits and a robust oral care routine, they're easily treatable, if not entirely preventable. To help you understand how best to prevent cavities and plaque and keep your pearly whites cavity-free, here are our top five oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices!
1. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
The most straightforward yet crucial strategy for steering clear of cavities is to commit to excellent at-home care. This involves:
- Brushing at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush
- Flossing at least once (ideally twice) a day
- Rinsing regularly using antibacterial mouthwash to remove food particles and plaque-causing bacteria from between teeth and along the gumline.
2. Choose the Best Toothpaste to Prevent Cavities
Selecting the right toothpaste is crucial to preventing cavities. Look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps protect against decay. In making your selection, make sure to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance for guaranteed effectiveness.
3. Limit Your Intake of Sugary and Acidic Foods and Beverages
The sugars and acids found in many popular snacks, like candy and citrus fruits, and beverages, like soda and coffee, create a hospitable environment for the bacteria that lead to plaque and gum disease, as well as the acids that can erode enamel and make teeth more susceptible to cavities.
To reduce the risk of your diet to your dental health, try to limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages and focus instead on a diet rich in whole fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
4. Drink Lots of Water
Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse away food debris and bacteria and neutralizes acids in the mouth. Regularly drinking water also promotes saliva production, which helps protect against cavities.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Commit to scheduling routine dental cleanings and exams every six months or as your dentist recommends. These routine visits allow your dentist to detect and quickly and painlessly treat cavities in their earliest stages.
Efficient Smile Restoration with Dental Fillings in Tazewell, VA
If you’re looking for a dentist in Tazewell, VA, to effectively and efficiently treat any cavities you have—or simply help to ensure they never arise in the first place—contact Dr.Ricky Alan May and the excellent RA May DDS team to schedule a consultation!