5 Cavity Prevention Tips and Suggestions

One of the most common dental procedures is the treatment of cavities. While cavities are very common, there are also many different cavity prevention methods that can be utilized to prevent cavities from developing, and becoming worse once they’ve started to form. In order to understand cavity prevention, though, it’s first important to understand what cavities are.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are essentially just tooth decay. This decay is caused by the formation of bacteria that wears through the enamel of a tooth, and continues to destroy the tooth until it is stopped. If a cavity is not properly cared for, it can lead to infection and even tooth loss. In order to avoid damage to your teeth due to cavities, you’ll want to consider the different cavity prevention tips discussed below.

5 Cavity Prevention Tips

Cavity prevention can be easy if your teeth and oral health in general are properly cared for. Below are 5 cavity prevention tips and suggestions that will help you to avoid trips to the dentist due to tooth decay.

1. Take Care of Your Oral Health at Home for Cavity Prevention

One of the best forms of cavity prevention is at-home care. While visiting the dentist for cleanings is important, your dentist isn’t with you every single day. Because of this, you need to be responsible for your oral health and cavity prevention. In order to avoid cavities, make sure to brush, floss and rinse out your mouth every day, twice a day. You’ll also want to invest in a quality toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to floss properly, and to take time to brush your teeth and rinse out your mouth. Don’t rush through these steps! Half-measures can lead to the formation of bacteria, and in turn, tooth decay.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Cavity Prevention

Cleanings and checkups are among the most important aspects of cavity prevention. While these procedures may be easy to blow off, this is a huge mistake! During visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups, your dentist will be able to professionally clean your teeth with tools that you likely won’t be using at home. They will also be able to take a look at your teeth, gums, jawbone, cheeks and tongue to check for any decay, disease or infection. If they notice that a cavity has begun to form, they can take care of it immediately. This prevents more intensive oral health procedures.

If you don’t already have an appointment in the books, make sure to schedule an appointment for a checkup and cleaning as soon as possible. From there, make sure to set an appointment for a checkup and cleaning every six months.

3. Eat Healthier Foods

Unhealthy foods and drinks contribute to the formation of plaque, as well as the wearing down of the enamel of the teeth. Sugar is very closely linked to cavities, and one of the best ways to avoid cavities is by cutting out sugary foods. This doesn’t mean you can never eat dessert again…just make sure you are eating sugary foods on rare occasions and in moderation.

4. Don’t Smoke

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for all different aspects of your health—including the health of your teeth. Smoking can lead to infection, tooth decay and even cancer—and this is just in your teeth! Smoking has been linked to all sorts of ailments…some of which are deadly. For the sake of your teeth and your health overall, quit any tobacco use.

5. Speak with Your Dentist About Dental Sealants

One excellent form of cavity prevention that can be used to protect teeth from decay is sealants. This coating over the teeth helps to protect against plaque and bacteria—significantly lowering the chances of decay and infection. It’s important to note that, even with sealants, it’s necessary to take proper care of your oral health.

Cavity Treatment

If you have noticed a cavity forming, or if your dentist finds a cavity, the cavity needs to be treated before the decay becomes worse. This generally involves the cleaning away of the decay, and the placement of a dental filling.

Once the cavity is treated, you will need to start incorporating the 5 cavity prevention tips suggested above to avoid the formation of cavities in the future. With proper oral healthcare and regular trips to the dentist, you’ll be able to lower your chances of tooth decay and ensure the longevity of your healthy teeth.