Brushing your teeth properly is essential to good oral health, avoiding bad breath, and plays a key role in preventing cavities. But are there other ways and helpful tips to help prevent cavities? The bacteria in our mouth from those substances become a sticky plaque on our teeth whenever we eat or drink. If that plaque is not removed correctly and brushed, cavities can form. Many people are afraid to go to the dentist because they fear or are nervous they may have cavities to fill during their visit. Learning how to prevent cavities in the future will allow you to go into your next dental visit confident and stress-free, knowing that your oral health is well taken care of. Learn these five effective ways to prevent cavities below and experience a happier and healthier lifestyle!
It’s been said many times, but brushing and flossing your teeth is the #1 way to prevent tooth loss, tooth decay, and cavities from occurring. When you have good oral health, it positively impacts your overall health. Brushing and flossing are extremely important and should be done twice a day. It is essential to brush and floss your teeth, but it is also crucial to use the right toothbrush for the job. Some people use brushes that are too hard or soft for their mouths and leave their mouths not as clean as they could be. Ask your dentist for some brushing tips and toothbrush recommendations to ensure your oral health is as clean as can be. Some patients may be required to use an electric toothbrush to ensure they reach even the hardest crevices of the mouth. Following this up with mouthwash and floss, you will notice a significant change in your overall smile.
The common saying that sugary drinks and sweets can lead to cavities is repeated. It is true that foods and beverages containing high amounts of sugar are not good for your teeth, but that doesn’t mean you must avoid them altogether. If you have a sweet tooth and love having your sweets, ensure you follow up with excellent brushing habits and flossing every night. This will ensure you get any sticky, sugary plaque off your teeth and leave your mouth feeling healthy and fresh. If you have a higher risk for cavities, it is best recommended that you try to avoid as many sugary drinks and snacks as possible and adapt to a healthier lifestyle. The foods and beverages that are high in sugar last in our saliva for a while and, if not rinsed with water or properly brushed, put our mouth at a higher risk of cavities. When craving sugar, try to avoid sugary snacks or snacks that do not contain hard sugar and syrups. Your mouth will thank you later for these swaps!
Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and oral exams is one of the best ways to prevent cavities. If you are at risk for a cavity, your dentist will be able to tell you right away, and you can work to create new oral habits and routines. Regular dental cleanings ensure your mouth is fully getting clean, removing any harmful plaque you may have. If you go to the dentist and they notice you have a cavity at that time, you are in the right place because they were able to catch it first early on, preventing worse tooth decay or damage down the road. Going to the dentist may be scary for some patients, but remind yourself of the good it has for your oral health, and the more you keep up with your appointments, the healthier your teeth will be. Many dentists recommend patients go to the dentist every six months, but some patients may be required to every four months to ensure they get the cleanest mouth possible.
If you are a smoker and often get cavities, it may be time to switch up your bad habits. It is easier said than done, but quitting smoking will significantly benefit your overall health. Smoking is unhealthy for your lungs, throat, and mouth. Many people who smoke have a higher risk of cavities because of the thick stain that can enter your saliva and stick to your teeth. Smokers usually have unhealthy teeth habits if they do not keep up with regular brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash. Smokers also have a higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Most smokers do not realize the severe damage their unhealthy habits can have on their teeth and mouth. By talking to your dentist and finding ways to slowly quit or find an alternative to your oral routine, you can work against cavities and have a healthier smile.
Sealants are a dental treatment that allows patients to be proactive with their oral health. Sealants is a protected coating painted on the teeth’ back surfaces. It is intended to protect the teeth from getting cavities by being a shield against bacteria and plaque caused by the foods and drinks we have. Sealants treatments are painless and done quickly, allowing patients to be in and out and protected! While sealants are more commonly used on children, many adults can also get sealants to prevent cavities. Ask your dentist about sealants if you or your child is at risk for cavities or want to be proactive and protect themselves moving forward. Your teeth will be happy, protected, and healthy!
If you are looking to improve your oral health and find ways of preventing cavities in the future, contact our offices in Chicago! We help patients with their tooth problems, cavities, regular cleanings, and oral exams, as well as specializing in other dental procedures. To book an appointment click below or give us a call at any of our five dental offices.
