When you visit the general dentist, you will probably be told repeatedly about the importance of brushing and flossing. Almost everyone knows that, yet tooth decay remains a common issue that everyone deals with at one time or another. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), tooth decay is the second most prevalent disease in America, after the common cold.
Many people do not take their oral health seriously, but it is an essential aspect of your daily lives. Fortunately, there is never a wrong time to start taking measures to prevent tooth decay. In this article, you will discover five critical tips shared by a general dentist for preventing tooth decay.
To take charge of your oral health, you need to know your cavity risk level. The most effective way is to get a comprehensive dental examination. An exam conducted by the dentist and discussions about your oral health will help you understand where you stand on the tooth decay threshold and what treatment is required. Knowing your risk level will also help you take active measures towards improving your oral health and fighting gum disease.
Another benefit is that you will know how regular your dental appointments should be. The higher the risk the higher the frequency of your dental visits.
You may already know this, but brushing helps to reduce bacteria and plaque in the mouth. It is the simplest and most effective way to fight tooth decay. Ensure you brush after meals and before going to bed because the bacteria in the mouth will continue to produce acidic plaque while you sleep. Also, antimicrobial dental rinses can reduce bacteria and give fresher breath.
Yes, your morning cup of coffee, latte and tea matters to you. However, continuously exposing your teeth to the acid and sugar in those drinks is detrimental to your teeth and may predispose you to cavities. The issue with sugary and acidic beverages is that they give the bacteria in your mouth something to feed on. Yes, you can enjoy your coffee, but make sure you rinse your mouth afterward. If you must take sugary drinks, then consider using a straw to keep the sugar off your teeth.
Everyone knows flossing is not fun. Here is the deal: The tooth has five sides that requires proper cleaning daily. Brushing is effective for only three sides, leaving two sides vulnerable. With flossing, you will be able to clean the sides that are inaccessible to the brush. Flossing takes only a few minutes daily and contributes significantly to your fight against tooth decay.
Smoking and tobacco use are responsible for many health problems. You may not know, but smoking can also put your mouth, gums and teeth at risk. Smoking does not only stain your teeth, but it also causes gum disease, tooth loss and even oral cancer.
Tooth decay can cause significant pain, which is the primary cause of most emergency visits to the general dentist. Follow the tips highlighted above to prevent tooth decay and stay healthy.
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