Cavities are truly a pain, both in the mouth and in your wallet. Your dentist needs to apply fillings to protect the rest of your tooth and you end up spending money that could have been used elsewhere. The good news is that cavities are very preventable as long as you make the effort to keep these habits in mind.
When avoiding cavities, you only need to practice these daily habits. Once you have these nailed down, you shouldn’t need to get any more fillings from your dentist in Hamden. By practicing oral care, keeping a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly, you shouldn’t have to face a dental drill again.
Fighting Cavities in Your Bathroom
The first step to any long-term anti-cavity plan is creating an oral care plan that you’ll actually stick to. According to your dentist in Hamden, this means brushing twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste for two minutes and flossing daily. It may also involve adding a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen existing tooth enamel, particularly if you’ve already gotten cavities. Ask your dentist if they think a prescription mouthwash is right for you.
When brushing, make sure to start by brushing the front surface of your teeth using a circular motion. Then, move to the other four corners of your mouth and use short, controlled, strokes, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth. Use at least 12 to 18 inches of floss so you can effectively wrap it around your fingers. Consider purchasing a smooth floss if you struggle to thread floss in between your teeth.
Watching What You Eat Throughout the Day
Many people don’t realize how important nutrition is when keeping your mouth healthy. To reduce the chance of cavities, make sure you eat a balanced meal rather than snack throughout the day. Snacking only causes sugary and starchy foods to stay in your mouth for longer.
Start by eliminating sugary drinks, like sodas, energy drinks, and fruit juices. Replace these with water or sugar-free iced tea. Replace sugary and starchy snacks with fruits and vegetables to improve your oral health as well as your overall health.
Seeing Your Dentist for Exams and Cleanings
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 23.7 percent of American adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have untreated cavities. This is because many people fail to see their dentists every six months, as recommended by the American Dental Association. By visiting regularly, your dentist can treat current cavities you have or catch early signs of tooth decay for further prevention.
If you’re looking for additional protection, either for yourself or for a family member, your family dentist in Hamden may also recommend dental sealants. These thin, plastic, protective coatings are ideal for protecting teeth from developing cavities, especially the vulnerable molars. Ask your dentist if you think dental sealants may be right for you.
With these tips in mind from your dentist in Hamden, cavities don’t stand a chance. Schedule an appointment with them today to learn more!
About the Author
Dr. Ronald J. D’Andrea earned his DMD degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He was also elected a fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, an international honorary dental organization that recognizes achievements by outstanding dentists. To learn more about his preventive treatments or practice, contact him at (203) 288-0951 or visit his website.
