Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

5 Ways To Prevent Cavities

12 November 2015 by Charlotte Beck

By now, you already know that brushing your teeth every day and limiting sweets can help reduce your risk of cavities. However, those are not the only ways to fight tooth decay. If you make some simple lifestyle changes, you will be less likely to develop cavities in the future. Here are five effective ways to prevent cavities: 

Eat More Cheese

If cheese isn't currently in your diet, it is time to include it. Cheese doesn't just keep your bones healthy; it can also strengthen your teeth. The calcium in cheese can remineralize your teeth and make them less susceptible to tooth decay.

Use a Straw

Sodas and juices can erode tooth enamel, so it's best to not drink them often. However, when you do want to drink one of these sugary beverages, you should at least use a straw. A straw will keep liquids away from your tooth surfaces, minimizing the risk of cavities.

Consider Dental Sealants

Some people are more prone to cavities than others. If you are someone who gets cavities no matter what you do, you may want to think about getting dental sealants. These sealants are applied to the biting surfaces of your teeth and will prevent bacteria from getting there. Dental sealants are inexpensive and can last you several years. However, you should still get them inspected for wear and tear at each dental checkup.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Another way you can minimize your risk of cavities is to chew sugar-free gum. It will stimulate saliva flow and prevent bacteria from sticking to your teeth. After you get done eating something, chew a piece of sugar-free gum to get rid of the food particles and bacteria.

Get an Electric Toothbrush

An electric toothbrush is a bit pricier than a standard toothbrush, but it does a much better job at cleaning your teeth. An electrical toothbrush's rotating head can get to hard-to-reach spots, such as your back molars. An electric toothbrush also does most of the work for you, so you will be more likely to brush your teeth for the recommended amount of time.

Cavities do not have to be in your future. If you follow these helpful tips, you can minimize your risk of tooth decay. However, you should still make a point to visit a dentist (such as Scott W. Murphy, D.M.D., P.A.) every six months for a checkup. He or she can detect a cavity before it becomes too serious.

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