7 Ways to Avoid Cavities

We all want to avoid cavities, but how? There are many steps you can take to keep your teeth healthy, bright and strong. Thankfully there are reliable and healthy ways to avoid cavities. Here are some ways you can avoid dental decay:

1. Regular Brushing

Regular brushing tops the list as the easiest and most important of the ways to avoid cavities. Just two minutes of brushing 3 times a day will keep your teeth clean and bright and prevent plaque from building up which can cause decay.

2. Regular Flossing

Often skipped, flossing is equally important to keeping your teeth clean and preventing cavities by removing plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gum line. Many people avoid flossing because it can be uncomfortable and the gums might bleed if not done routinely, but if you maintain a regular flossing routine your gums may enjoy better health, and your teeth may avoid preventable dental decay.

3. Mouthwash

Mouthwash is another great way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Mouthwash can kill bacteria and rinse away plaque that may lead to cavities.

4. Avoiding Sugar and Acidic Foods

Among the many ways to avoid cavities, one you can do is to reduce the amount of sugar you eat or drink. Sugar is directly correlated with tooth decay. Sugary and acidic foods and drinks combine with the saliva and bacteria in your mouth to create plaque and cause erosion of your tooth enamel.

5. Eating Healthier

Eating healthier overall is another one of the ways to avoid cavities that can also provide many other whole body health benefits. Eating a diet with less sugars, processed foods and that are higher in fiber, fruit and vegetable content can help provide the nutrients and vitamins you need to maintain healthy teeth, and maybe even knock off a little plaque as you chew a crunchy stalk of celery or a crisp bite of apple.

6. Professional Cleaning and Exam

Getting a routine professional cleaning and exam every 6 months, or as often as is recommended by your dentist, can remove plaque buildup in hard to reach places and help spot problem areas before they lead to tooth decay. Your dentist can also demonstrate for you how to better maintain the health of your teeth and advise you on ways to avoid cavities.

7. Flouride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that can help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is commonly found in toothpastes and some mouthwashes, but your dentist may also provide a fluoride treatment that can cost your teeth and provide longer term protection from cavities and help with sensitivity. Ask your dentist if fluoride treatment is one of the ways to avoid cavities that will suit your needs and situation.

Call our Jacksonville Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.