Tooth cavities are also called dental caries and this is a common dental issue that affects people of all ages. However, this is also a preventable issue and this occurs as a result of tooth decay. Tooth decay happens when plaque builds up on the teeth and then produces acids that can erode the tooth enamel. If you don’t treat this, you can experience painful toothaches, infection and in some cases, it can lead to tooth loss.
It is important to have a good oral hygiene routine
So that you can protect your teeth. You have to brush your teeth at least twice a day and use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride can strengthen the tooth enamel so that it is more resistant to acid attacks. Make sure to choose a soft bristledtoothbrush to brush all surfaces of the teeth. You have to pay special attention to the back molars as they tend to form cavities most often as they can get overlooked. As they are hard to reach, many people don’t brush it properly. You also need to floss in addition to brushing as this can remove food particles from areas a toothbrush cannot reach like between the teeth and along the gumline. Another addition to this routine is the use of antibacterial mouthwash.
You also need to go for regular dental check-ups.
This is recommended to be done at least once every six months. When you visit the dentist Cleveland, they will be able to spot the signs of early tooth decay and provide treatments so that your tooth can be saved.Professional cleanings will also be done during the check-ups so that plaque and tartar can be removed. There will be fluoride treatments applied to your teeth and some will also recommend dental sealants. Sealants are a protective coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth which are most prone to form cavities. You have to think about how your diet affects your oral health as well. The primary culprits for cavities are sugary and acidic food. When you consume sugar, it will interact with the bacteria in your mouth and this will lead to the production of acid that will erode the tooth enamel. Therefore, you have to limit the consumption of sugary snacks, sodas and candy.
You can incorporate
A sugary snack during mealtimes as this is when your saliva production is higher. And this will help neutralise acids. You can also chew sugar free gum after meals as it stimulates the production of saliva. You have to be careful when consuming acidic foods and drinks as these can also erode the enamel. Make sure to have a balanced diet that has fruits, vegetables, dairy products and whole grains. There are foods that can remineralise the enamel such as leafy greens and cheese as they have high phosphorous and calcium content. Make sure to stay hydrated as water will wash away bacteria and food particles in the mouth. This will reduce the risk of plaque formation.
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