Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Cavities

A key to maintaining good overall health is having consistent dental health practices. Dental cavities are among the most notable conditions that patients must be aware of in ensuring the oral health of their family. Here are some tips recommended by Bixby Knolls Dental Group to ensure cavities present the lowest risk to you and your family.

What are Cavities?

Cavities are formed in layers when a tooth decays, which is also a result of poor dental health. A cavity may be as simple as a minor plaque which transforms into tartar, affecting the gums, or it may progress all the way to the root of the tooth.

What are the Dangers of Cavities?

Cavities may cause pain as the many nerves within the tooth are exposed due to decay. Left untreated, a cavity may cause an abscess within the mouth, and it is not unheard of for life-threatening infections to develop as a result of untreated cavities.

How to Avoid Cavities

Many dentist recommendations vary in how you should go about avoiding and preventing cavities. After all, bacteria are always present within the mouth. Nevertheless, here are a few common recommendations shared across the dental spectrum.

Frequent Brushing Habits

Brush frequently and at a minimum, twice a day to remove food particles residing in your teeth. Use a good, fluoride toothpaste, and rinse thoroughly with water. Floss between your teeth to eliminate as much food residue as possible.

Use an Electric Toothbrush

Although manual brushing has been found to be nearly as effective, evidence suggests using an electric toothbrush removes more plaque, and also avoids hurting the teeth and gum from hard brushing techniques.

Avoid Snacking or Drinking Between Meals

Any food or drink other than water ads bacteria to the mouth. In addition, snacks consumed late at night often leave food within the mouth for several hours, which can harbor more harmful bacteria overnight.

Cut Down on Coffee and Alcohol

Coffee and alcohol can not only increase the risk of cavities, they can also lower your immune system. This is crucial when your body needs to fight infections that include tooth decay. Visit your dental physician frequently.

Visit Your Dentist Frequently

By getting your teeth cleaned regularly from your dentist, you can routinely check for any development of cavities and gum disease. Prevention in the short term is often better than expensive dental procedures such as a root canal or gum disease in the long term.

Discuss with Your Dentist Other Overriding Concerns

If you are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay due to another health condition, your dentist may be able to recommend antibacterial treatments, sealants, or special fluoride prescriptions.