7 Ways to Keep the Cavities Away

Keeping cavities away can be a challenge if you do not know how to avoid them. Our dental staff at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Las Colinas in Irving, Texas, have compiled a list of seven ways to keep cavities away. The only disclaimer we will like to make is that this list applies to both pediatric and adult populations. Our dental staff is specialized in pediatric dentistry and adult dentistry, and we believe that there are many key points in dental care that apply to all individuals.

1. Take the time to educate yourself on your dental hygiene and its importance. This is the first step and you are already doing that by reading this blog!
2. Dr.ink a lot of water.
   • Especially close to your bedtime, avoid sugary drinks like juices.
     • The acid in juices and sports drinks can destroy your enamel leading to tooth decay.
   • Dr.ink water frequently and keep the snacking to a minimum.
3. FLOSS!
   • Flossing loosens the particles in between your teeth that brushing misses and removes plaque, preventing the buildup of tartar.
   • Try to floss every day.
4. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes.
   • This is what the American Dental Association (ADA), says.
     • Brushing your teeth and tongue with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste cleans food and bacteria from your mouth.
     • Brushing washes out particles that eat away at your teeth, causing cavities.
5. Proper dental care.
   • Do not overdo your dental care.
   • Without a healthy enamel, dentin is exposed and the tiny holes that lead to nerve endings.
   • Rinse with mouthwash containing fluoride if you’re at a high risk for developing cavities.
6. Improve your diet habits.
   • Limit your frequent snacking and sipping.
     • Bad eating habits put your teeth under constant attack, especially when you eat sugary foods. The bacteria in your mouth feeds off of the carbs and sugars and produces an acid that destroys tooth enamel.
   • Stick to tooth-healthy foods.
     • Diet is critical to all aspects of health, including oral health.
     • If a food tends to get stuck in your teeth for long periods of time, then it will promote tooth decay, i.e. chips or cookies.
     • Opt out for fresh vegetables and fruits, as they actually help increase saliva flow and re-mineralize your tooth enamel.
     • Avoid sticky sweets, like candy and gum!!!
7. Last but not least, see your dentist regularly.
8. • Keep up with regular dental visits.
   • Keep a conversation going, and talk to your dentist about how frequently you’ll need visit to maintain your oral health.
   • Regular oral exams and professional teeth cleanings, can help prevent dental decay and identify problems early on.
   • Consider an antibacterial treatment.
     • Sometimes medical conditions and scenarios may make you especially vulnerable to dental erosion and decay.

If you are in the Irving, Texas area and have any concerns or questions, or if you want to schedule an appointment, contact us today at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry.