Cavities are damaged areas in teeth that develop into tiny holes. When harmful bacteria enters the mouth, it uses the sugars in the foods and drinks we consume to make acids. The acids, if left in the mouth, eat away at the tooth’s hard outer enamel, eventually causing tooth decay and cavities to form.
Frequent exposure to sugary foods and beverages increase the acid attacks on your teeth causing the enamel to continue to lose minerals. When this occurs a white spot may appear where minerals have been lost. This early sign of tooth decay can be stopped.
To prevent further mineral loss and to preserve your tooth enamel, we recommend the following 6 tips to help avoid cavities.
1. Using fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that can prevent tooth decay from progressing. It replaces lost minerals and decreases the ability of acids to form. Fluoride can be found in water, toothpaste and mouthwash.
2. Watch what you eat
Avoid or limit your intake of sugars and starches. Candies, sodas and fruit drinks are high in sugar which form acids that attack your enamel.
3. Avoid snacking between meals
Eating less reduces the number of acid attacks on your teeth and gives teeth a chance to reproduce its minerals.
4. Avoid sugars after bedtime
Your saliva can help fight off acid attacks during the day. However, saliva flow decreases during sleep, which decreases the ability to fight off acids in your mouth.
5. Brush your teeth twice a day
The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth twice daily. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste can help fend off the cavities.
6. Visit your dentist for regular checkups
A routine dental visit can help catch and prevent early signs of cavities and gum disease. Your dentist will remove dental plaque around your teeth and check for any signs of tooth decay.
To schedule a checkup with Jose David Sanchez, D.D.S. at Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi, call us at (661) 822-3727 or visit our website at DentistTehachapi.com.
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