In our last blog, we mentioned how cavities are a common problem in children. In fact, more than half of all dental patients in the United States will have at least one cavity in their life. Although this is a common problem, it is important to take steps to prevent decay in order to maintain a healthy smile. Your Rodem Tree Dental team in Rowlett, TX, is here with three ways to prevent this common dental problem.
A Healthy Diet
Having a well-balanced diet is key to your overall health, including your mouth. We don’t want you to completely miss out on your favorite snacks but remember to eat sugary foods in moderation. As a rule of thumb, fruits, vegetables, and lean meats are better for your teeth. Be sure to also drink water to rinse out food residue after meals.
Good Oral Hygiene
Proper brushing and flossing is also an important step to prevent cavities. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, use circular motions to clean your teeth. You should be scrubbing for two minutes. Follow this step by flossing between each tooth to remove debris from those hard-to-reach places. You can also end this routine with a bacteria-fighting mouthwash. You should be following this routine twice a day to maintain a healthy and fresh smile.
If you struggle with flossing due to braces or health problems, a water pick may be useful as well. An electric toothbrush can also be used in replacement of a traditional one. The vibrations from this tool can remove plaque more easily. Many electric toothbrushes also come with a timer, which ensures that you are thoroughly cleaning your teeth.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
There is a reason why your checkups are scheduled every six months. These appointments allow the dentist and staff to look for early signs of cavities and other problems. During your cleaning, the dentist can check for soft or sensitive areas of your tooth which may be indicators of decay. An X-ray can also show a more detailed look at your oral cavity.
If you are more at risk of developing cavities, a fluoride treatment may be used to strengthen your enamel against the bacteria that leads to tooth decay. In the case that a cavity has formed, there are ways to restore and protect the teeth. A filling can be done in a separate appointment. This treatment removes the damaged part, cleans the area, and fills the hole will a tooth-colored filling. It is important to treat dental decay as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring.
Schedule An Appointment With Us
Early detection is key to treating cavities. To schedule an exam and cleaning, call Rodem Tree Dental in Rowlett, TX, today at 972-475-2321.
