Four Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Tooth Decay
Does it seem like no matter what you do, you’re constantly getting new cavities each year? Although there may be some genetic and hereditary reasons behind an elevated cavity risk, there are several things you can do to reduce the frequency and amount of developing tooth decay.
Here are a few of the tips that we recommend to our Wantrina South patients:
- Drink Water Whenever Possible
Most of the drinks we consume tend to feed oral bacteria, including fruit juice, milk, sports drinks, sweetened tea or coffee, and soda (whether it’s regular or diet.) Hydrating with water cleans your teeth as you drink it, plus there aren’t any hidden sugars or acids that can etch away your enamel.
- Hate Flossing? Find an Alternative
We know that most people don’t like to floss, or at least have a hard time sticking to the habit. If you’re looking to find another way to thoroughly clean between your teeth, a water flosser is a perfect investment. Countertop and shower designs make it easy to clean areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Ask for Fluoride
Found in toothpaste and over the counter mouthrinse, fluoride strengthens teeth and makes them resistant to cavity-causing acids. But it’s not as strong as what you could get in the dentist’s office. An in-office treatment or prescription may be extremely helpful if you’re prone to frequent cavities.
- See Your Dentist Every Six Months
Regular preventative care and exams allows us to screen for decay and diagnose it earlier, allowing for smaller fillings rather than more complex crowns or root canals. Additionally, it’s possible to provide therapeutic treatments that may help to re-mineralize the tooth and halt the decay process.
Call Studfield Dental Group today to schedule your next exam!