Tooth Decay Prevention: Tips for a Cavity-Free Smile
A bright beacon of joy sent out into the world around you, your smile is one of the first things people will notice about you. However, nothing puts a damper on a perfect smile quite like cavities. To prevent these malicious cavities from infesting your pearly whites, here are a few tooth decay prevention tips that you can implement into your dental routine.
Cavity-Free Tooth Decay Prevention Tips
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Brush Early and Often
Brushing should be a key part of every morning routine. While some may feel they’ve cracked the code for tooth decay prevention by brushing their teeth twice a day: once in the morning and once at night, the most optimal way to prevent cavities is to brush after every meal, ensuring plaque doesn’t build up throughout the day.
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Add Flossing to Your Dental Routine
Flossing is something almost everyone tells their dentist they do on a daily basis, but, in all honesty, not everyone really flosses everyday. While it may seem like a waxy string won’t help with tooth decay prevention, flossing is pivotal in dislodging plaque and food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. Flossing before you brush can also help prevent cavity development in the least brushed parts of your mouth.
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Eat a Tooth-Healthy Diet
It’s a common fact that acidic foods or those with high sugar contents can cause damage to your tooth enamel, potentially leading to the formation of cavities. However, your diet can also be a star player in tooth decay prevention. Eating foods that are high in calcium can actually fortify your teeth, helping prevent cavities instead of creating them.
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Cut Out Smoking
It seems smoking isn’t just bad for the lungs, but also your teeth. A 2020 study by the CDC revealed that over 40% of adults aged 20 to 64 that smoke have untreated tooth decay, and those above 65 who smoke are nearly twice as likely to have untreated tooth decay than their nonsmoking peers. This doesn’t include other oral illnesses caused by smoking like gum disease and cancer. Cutting out smoking nicotine is one of the most effective things someone can do to prevent tooth decay.
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Schedule Regular Dentist Visits
Ultimately, the best strategy for tooth decay prevention is to schedule regular appointments with your dental health professional. Dentists can provide treatment and maintenance plans tailored to your specific needs, as well as provide oral health tips to prevent the formation of cavities.
Contact Your Leesburg Tooth Decay Prevention Expert
For over 20 years, Eddie Orobitg, D.M.D. has treated the Leesburg community with quality dental health checkups and restorative procedures. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or pain, then trust your experienced local dentist, Dr. Orobitg, to take care of all your dental needs. Call our offices at 352-787-5919 to schedule your appointment today.