According to research, one in four adults have cavities. Unfortunately, oral health is often taken for granted. However, it’s never too late to take control of your oral health and prevent dental problems. Please continue reading to learn tips for avoiding cavities and why connecting with our general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ, is in your best interest.
How Can I Avoid Cavities?
The first and most crucial step in taking control of your oral health is assessing your cavity risk level. The best way to determine this is through a comprehensive dental exam. With regular examinations, your dentist will evaluate where you stand, which treatments may be required, and which changes in your daily oral care routine and diet should be implemented to avoid developing cavities. Once you know your risk level, you can take a more effective approach to your oral health.
While this may seem obvious, you should brush regularly using the proper technique, floss, and use mouthwash in your daily oral care routine. It’s often recommended that individuals brush their teeth at least twice a day. Brushing helps remove debris and plaque. It would be best if you tried to stay away from hard-bristle toothbrushes and avoid brushing too hard. Flossing is also essential as it keeps the areas between your teeth clean. Mouthwash also contains bacteria-fighting ingredients that eliminate plaque, debris, and germs while rinsing. You will have a cleaner and fresher mouth if you utilize mouthwash regularly.
Bacteria in your mouth feed off sugars in the foods and drinks you consume, which is the catalyst for developing tooth decay. Therefore, you should avoid sugary and acidic foods or beverages. Dental plaque makes acids that wear down the tooth enamel, which can lead to cavities. In addition, when you cut back on sugary and acidic drinks, you should drink more water. Drinking water with fluoride can help keep your teeth healthy.
Should I Go for Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams?
Furthermore, the first line of defense against cavities is early detection. As mentioned above, you should go for regular dental cleanings and exams. Routine dental cleaning can help prevent cavities by removing plaque buildup on your teeth. If dental plaque is not removed, it can lead to decay. Your dentist will advise you on better care of your teeth.
At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to help you maintain your oral health. If you have tooth pain or are experiencing issues, you should schedule an appointment with our team immediately. Untreated cavities can result in tooth loss and serious infections. Please don’t hesitate to contact our team today to learn more about how we can assist you.
