Preventing Tooth Decay

What are Cavities?

Cavities is another term for tooth decay. Tooth decay is resulted based on our lifestyle, what we eat, how well we take care of our teeth, and the presence of fluoride in our water and toothpaste.

To avoid cavities, dentists recommend proper dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental check-ups, diet control, and fluoride treatment.

Importance of Brushing and Flossing

Cavity prevention starts with a good oral hygiene routine. This will remove dental plaque — a sticky, colorless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth.

Flossing is particularly important because a toothbrush can’t reach in between the teeth the way floss can. Make sure to floss both sides of every tooth, including the back molars, at least once each day.

Brush your teeth at least twice each day, using a toothpaste that contains fluoride — a naturally-occurring mineral which helps prevent cavities.

Monitor Your Diet

Certain foods and beverages are no friends to your teeth, and soda tops the list. Soda, sports drinks, and so-called “energy drinks” are all acidic — even the sugar-free varieties. The acids they contain attack tooth enamel and make your teeth more prone to decay. Fruit juices can also be very acidic. Drinking water is much better for your dental health, not only because it has a completely neutral pH (is non-acidic), but also because it helps replenish your saliva — which has natural cavity-fighting properties. Sugary and starchy foods (cookies, candy, donuts, and chips) are also a problem — especially when they are not promptly cleaned from your mouth. They nourish the oral bacteria that cause cavities and raise the acidity level in your mouth.

Madison Avenue Dentists, PC Oral Care Plan

It is important to visit your dentist regularly. Contact Dr. Stella Oh or Dr. Estafan to discuss the best oral care plan for you.