Unfortunately, cavities are a common dental issue that can affect adults of all ages. Several factors can contribute to the development of cavities. Please continue reading to learn the best ways to prevent cavities and why connecting with our seasoned general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ is in your best interest.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries, are holes or structural damage in a tooth that is caused by tooth decay that results from a combination of factors, including plaque build-up, bacteria, and acid erosion. If left untreated, they can progress, causing long-term damage to the teeth. These damaged areas of tooth decay become tiny openings that can lead to serious toothache, infection, and tooth loss.
How Can I Avoid Cavities?
The first step in preventing cavities is to understand your risk level. The best way to know this is through a comprehensive dental exam from a seasoned dentist. With regular examinations, your dentist will be able to assess your overall oral health, enabling them to determine which treatments may be needed, as well as which changes in your oral hygiene routine and diet may help. Once you understand your risk level, you can implement a more effective approach to improving your dental health.
While this may seem obvious, regular brushing and flossing are fundamental oral hygiene practices that help remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from teeth. Be sure to brush after meals and before bed. It’s particularly important to brush before bed so you don’t allow bacteria to linger on your teeth overnight, which can allow enamel-damaging acid to form, leading to cavities. Also, you should consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash in your daily routine to help kill bacteria that cause plaque. Using fluoride toothpaste is also important because it strengthens enamel, protecting against acid erosion.
Furthermore, you should reduce your sugar intake. When you consume sugary foods and drinks, the bacteria in your mouth will feed on these sugars to produce acids that weaken the enamel, which leads to cavities. You should drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial as it aids in saliva production and complements dental care routines by eliminating debris.
At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to help you improve your oral health. As you can see, regular dental check-ups and professional dental cleanings play a critical role in maintaining your oral health, as they can detect and address issues early on, ensuring a healthy smile. Schedule an appointment with our seasoned team today to discuss what we can do for you.
