Easy Ways to Prevent Cavities
Cavities are very common, and the biggest reason we visit the dentist. There are a few ways that you can prevent and reduce your chance of getting a cavity. The most common one is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and possibly after every meal. There are other preventative measures that can help reduce the risk for cavities and other tooth related issues that your dentist can provide. By following these, your chance for getting cavities will be reduced.
Sealants
A treatment your dentist can do is applying sealants to your teeth. The process is simple and quick and the dentist will apply the sealant, which is an acrylic coating, to your tooth after they clean it. Within a minute the sealant will form on the tooth, and be able to protect it better from plaque. Putting the sealant on the top or biting surface of the back teeth is a good way to keep cavities to a minimum in both children and adults. The sealant will cover all parts of the biting side of the tooth and protect it from plaque that eats away at the enamel. Sealants are inexpensive and also will last up to ten years, but can be reapplied by the dentist when they start to wear off.
Fluoride
You may be familiar with fluoride, as it is the main ingredient in most toothpaste and mouth wash products. The reason for this is because fluoride is a safe and proven way to reduce cavities. The tooth enamel loses the minerals that make it strong, because of the bacteria that results in plaque. With Fluoride, the enamel is more resistant to the acids by the bacteria in plaque. Fluoride can be found in 59% of American drinking water and in some foods, and can be used directly as toothpaste and other mouth products. Your dentist can also do a fluoride treatment, which they cover the teeth with a fluoride gel or foam for a few minutes, which will result in stronger enamel. While fluoride is good, it should be used as directed. It is best to consult a dentist with how much fluoride you should take, and recommendations for the best fluoride toothpastes and products on the market.
Routine visits
By going to regular routine checkup at the dentist you will be able reduce the chance of getting a cavity. You will have your teeth cleaned, looked at, and x-rays taken so the dentist can look at parts of the teeth that are below the gums. The dentist is able to see more in your mouth and can determine if there are any issues or cavities. They can even tell the onset of a cavity and will be able to fix it before it becomes a larger issue. During your visit, you can schedule another appointment for a fluoride or sealant treatment. There is also a chance they can give you the treatment at the end of your current appointment, since the application of either treatment takes such a small amount of time.