Five Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
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Tooth decay is the second most common disease behind the common cold. Yet, we fail to grasp how serious this condition can be. Strangely, its preventive remedies are simple everyday things that we often miss out on. For those who aren’t aware, tooth decay doesn’t only cause a cavity in your teeth but infects your teeth and gums. This infection can spread throughout the body complicating chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.
Tooth decay is usually caused by bacteria and food. When we don’t brush our teeth properly, the food we eat is left over in our mouth and starts to rot. This along with pre-existing bacteria causes plaque formation. The plaque produces acids that erode the enamel on the teeth and starts creating cavities. But these 5 simple tips can save you a lot of trouble.
1 Brush your teeth
Dentists recommend that we brush our teeth twice daily. Generally, it’s advised one after every meal. But if that’s not possible then at least twice daily. They prescribe a brush with soft bristles so that it does not stress the gums. The brush should be held at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and there should be short horizontal and vertical movements. The movement should not be wider than the width of the teeth.
Fluoride toothpaste is usually recommended. If that’s not available, then you can also opt for herbal toothpaste. If you have consumed any sweetened food items, then please wait for at least 30 minutes before brushing otherwise, you might risk eroding the enamel.
2 Use mouthwash
Remember to wash your mouth after every drink (especially sweetened beverages) and meal. After brushing your teeth, remember to use a mouthwash. An anti-microbial mouthwash is best suited for this purpose. Take about 15ml of mouthwash and gargle well. Try to get every corner and nook of your mouth. Rinse for at least 30 seconds and then spit it out. Try not to drink any water immediately, wait for at least 15 minutes for the mouthwash to show it's magic.
3 Use floss
After every meal, floss your teeth. It’s not possible to protect your teeth against rotting food substances by only brushing twice. So, using floss allows you to remove those particles and saves you the risk of tooth decay. Try to be gentle when you floss since the floss can cut into your gums if you try to fasten the process.
4 Cut down on sweetened beverages
Cold drinks, artificial juices, ice-creams and other such items hamper your dental health severely. When sugar comes in contact with your teeth, the pre-existing microbes and bacteria start feeding on it. As they continue to feed, they secrete a kind of acid. This acid formation is known as plaque. If plaque is not removed when it’s soft and newly formed, it hardens to form a rough cover. The plaque then continues to produce acid which hampers the teeth.
5 Visit the dentist periodically
Finally, the last simple tip includes regular check-ups and visits. Why wait till you’re in pain to get yourself checked. Periodical dentist visits can help you understand the status of your oral hygiene. Depending on the condition, you can take preventive measures so as to reduce any kind of discomfort you might experience later on.
You should book periodic appointments with a dentist at least once every 2 months. Depending on the condition, you can either look for cavity treatments, anti-microbial treatments or simply check your hygiene condition.
For more info about teeth and gum health you can always talk to a doctor online.
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