Tooth decay is one of the most widespread dental complaints in patients of all ages. A tooth begins to decay when the bacteria inside the mouth break down sugars in the diet and release acids as byproducts. These acids weaken the teeth by causing minerals to be lost from the tooth enamel.
Tooth decay appears as a dark spot on the tooth, progressing to form a cavity as it grows. Once a cavity is formed, it continues to deepen and damage the inner layers of the tooth. A decayed tooth can cause complications such as infection and toothache if left untreated. The good news? Tooth decay is usually preventable by following some simple dental care tips and making a few lifestyle changes,
Listed below are easy ways you can implement to prevent tooth decay.
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day removes plaque deposits and accumulated food particles from the tooth surface. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste with fluorides. Brush your teeth gently, as vigorous brushing can damage the enamel. Make sure to cover all tooth surfaces, including the inner surfaces of front teeth.
While tooth brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, food particles can also get lodged between them. Therefore, cleaning the gaps between the teeth with interdental brushes or dental floss is necessary to prevent tooth decay.
A balanced diet is good for health and prevents tooth decay. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt contain calcium, which strengthens teeth. Crunchy or firm fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots contain water, which neutralizes the acids that damage the enamel. These foods also clean teeth naturally.
Sugar is the primary offender of tooth decay. When sugar is readily available to the bacteria in the mouth, its breakdown produces more acids, leading to a faster rate of tooth decay. So, try limiting your consumption of sugary foods and beverages such as candy, chocolates, cakes, and sodas and replacing them with healthier alternatives.
One of the simplest ways to save teeth from decay is to drink plenty of water. Water encourages saliva production, dilutes acids produced by oral bacteria, and removes food particles and bacteria from teeth. Keeping well hydrated also helps avoid dry mouth.
Fluoride is a mineral essential for remineralization of teeth and maintaining enamel strength. Your dentist can provide supplemental fluoride through toothpaste or mouth rinse.
A quick visit to your dentist at least twice a year is a great way to prevent tooth decay. During a clinical examination, your dentist can catch initial signs of tooth decay and address them right away. A professional tooth cleaning every six months is also helpful in removing plaque buildup and preventing tooth decay and bleeding gums.
Dental sealants are a preventative treatment for tooth decay. They involve applying a thin layer of protective covering to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The small, deep grooves on the tooth surface are prone to food accumulation, so sealants fill these grooves and protect the teeth.
Reducing the risk of tooth decay involves a few easy steps, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, drinking water, eating a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly. Once you integrate these habits into your daily life, you can keep your pearly whites healthy and functioning for a long time.
Book an appointment with us to learn more about tooth decay prevention.
For bleeding gum treatment in Panvel, visit Dr. Oswal’s SK Dental Care Clinic.