Tooth decay occurs when bacteria causes plaque to form on your teeth, and you don’t remove it effectively with flossing and brushing. The decay can continue to spread until it creates a cavity, which will require a filling, and can be painful and costly. If you want to know how to prevent tooth decay, there are a few steps you can take with the help of general dentistry in Conroe, Texas.
Learn How to Prevent Tooth Decay When You Brush
Although you may brush your teeth twice each day, if you fail to use the proper techniques, you can still develop tooth decay. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, which will keep the enamel on your teeth from wearing down and stop your gums from receding. Apply gentle pressure and brush at a 45-degree angle with the bristles on the gums. Many people forget to brush the inner parts of their teeth along with the chewing surfaces. You’ll also need to brush your tongue to remove any bacteria that are present. Finally, it’s essential to replace your toothbrush every three to four months to ensure that you use a product that works effectively to remove plaque and bacteria.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has more than just a negative impact on your overall health. It also harms your oral health and can increase the risk of tooth decay. It’s often responsible for gum disease, oral cancer, and even tooth loss. Work with a medical professional to drop your smoking habit and protect the quality of your teeth.
Start Flossing
When you’re learning how to prevent tooth decay naturally, keep in mind that flossing is just as important as brushing and is useful in removing excess food in between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t always remove. Flossing only takes a few minutes to perform each day and can prevent tooth decay from occurring on the two sides of the teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. It has also been demonstrated to improve gum health, which prevents tooth loss and promotes tooth health. It is a food idea to floss every night to remove excess food particles that have become trapped after eating throughout the day.
Increase Your Water Intake
Begin drinking more water to prevent your saliva from becoming too sugary, which can lead to cavities. You’ll also want to limit the number of acidic or sugary beverages that you consume each day. If you plan to drink a soda or coffee with sugar, rinse your mouth out with water no more than 20 minutes later. You can also sip beverages from a straw to prevent some of the acid or sugar from having contact with your teeth.
Drinking water that contains fluoride is one of the most effective steps to take to reduce your risk of cavities if you want to practice how to prevent tooth decay naturally. Proper hydration also helps the body distribute beneficial nutrients, remove waste, and keep the teeth healthy.
Opt for Dental Sealants
Tooth decay prevention can also involve talking to a dental professional about applying sealants to your teeth. A dental sealant is a clear coat that your dentist can apply to each tooth that works as a barrier against bacteria. It’s often applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where decay usually begins. The sealants are painted on specific teeth and can protect them for many years. Dental sealants are often recommended for young children who are still learning how to develop proper oral health techniques. You can also get professional teeth cleaning and then keep your teeth free of plaque after that.
Change Your Diet
The foods that you eat can increase the risk of tooth decay and make you more susceptible to cavities. Dental professionals recommend limiting snacking throughout the day and sticking to three main meals. Save candy, sugary treats, and juice for special occasions. Increase your intake of vitamin-rich foods that contain calcium to increase the strength of your teeth. Start eating more almonds, leafy greens, and cheese to maximize the benefits of tooth decay prevention. You can also incorporate more phosphorus-rich foods like eggs, fish, and meat into your diet to keep the enamel healthy and strong.
Contact Lovett Dental online or call us at 936-760-2400 to learn additional ways that you can reduce your risk of developing tooth decay. We’ll be happy to provide you with more information about tooth decay prevention and explain all the services we can offer you.
