How To Handle Frequent Cavities
If you find that you frequently have new cavities when you visit your family dentist, it is time to rethink your dental routine. Changing your dental hygiene habits, altering your eating habits, and utilizing certain dental procedures are a few ways you can successfully decrease the occurrence of cavities.
Dental Hygiene Habits
If you have a poor tooth-brushing technique, consider investing in an electric toothbrush. An electric toothbrush is capable of covering a significantly larger area than a manual toothbrush in the same amount of time. Studies have indicated that regular use of an electric toothbrush helps reduce cavity-causing plaque.
Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, specifically after eating or drinking.
Using a mouthwash approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) is a simple way to reduce cavities. Mouthwashes that are designed to prevent cavities contain fluoride to help strengthen tooth enamel.
Eating Habits
If you find yourself constantly eating and drinking throughout the day, your teeth are constantly coated with food. The sugars in the food provide fuel for the formation of bacterial plaque when they are not promptly removed. Avoid constant snacking, especially if you cannot brush your teeth after eating.
Stay away from soda and other acidic beverages. Not only does the sugar contribute to the formation of plaque, but the acid in these drinks can cause tooth enamel to break down.
Limit food that tend to get stuck between the teeth, such as chips or cookies. Sticky foods should also be avoided, as they cling to the teeth and are not easily washed away by saliva. Fruits and vegetables are smart options, as they both increase the flow of saliva that helps remove food particles from the teeth.
Chewing sugar free gum also increases saliva and decreases the leftover food that is found on your teeth.
Dental Procedures
Certain dental tests help determine if you are predisposed to getting cavities. Salivary tests are a popular option to see if your mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria and plaque. Your dentist is able to perform a salivary caries-risk assessment to evaluate the pH, flow, and bacteria of your saliva. If you results are unfavorable, he or she can recommend products that alter the environment of your mouth.
Visiting your family dentist for more frequent teeth cleanings removes plaque before it causes cavities. Ask your dentist if having a cleaning every three or four months will be beneficial to your dental health.
Learning that you have yet another cavity is depressing news to receive. Fortunately, you can decrease your likelihood of developing more cavities by changing your dental habits, eating habits, and opting for certain dental procedures. Take control of your dental health to keep your teeth as healthy and strong as possible.
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