There is a quote from Taylor Caldwell, “I was never afraid of anything in the world except the dentist.”
You will also be afraid of the dentist, you will avoid going to the dentist as much as possible. But what if your teeth start to rot? Then you are obliged to visit the dentist, so prevention is always better than cure if you do not want to go to the dentist. So, today I am going to share with you some of the effective ways which you can follow to avoid tooth decaying problem.
How Tooth Decay Happen
Do you know? Tooth decay is the second most common disease, after the common cold.
Tooth decay is a process that happens over time and results in a cavity. Tooth decay and cavity are not two different things, they are co-related with each other.
Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel caused by certain types of bacteria that use sugars in food to make acids. When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently, it starts to lose minerals.
If the tooth decay process continues, the enamel is weakened and destroyed, forming a cavity.
Causes of Tooth decay or Cavity
- Poor oral hygiene is the major cause of tooth decay or cavity. If you do not brush your teeth properly then it will allow plaque to build up and attack the tooth enamel.
- Eating and drinking play a significant role in the formation of cavities. When you eat or drink carbohydrates remains on the surface of your tooth until you brush your teeth.
Sometimes, foods that are not completely removed with brushing and flossing can expand your risk for a tooth cavity.
So be sure to brush your teeth regularly, especially after eating and before going to bed.
- Dry mouth is another cause of cavities. It is caused by the lack of saliva. Saliva helps to wash the plaque from the teeth and guard the acid. If you lack saliva and have dry mouth then plaque and bacteria may build up more quickly.
Symptoms of Tooth Decay or Cavity
- Consistent toothache is the most common tooth decay symptom.
- Increased tooth sensitivity and pain, particularly when eating sweet, hot, or cold food or drinks.
- Noticeable hole or pits in the affected tooth.
- Black, brown, or white staining on the surface of the affected tooth.
- Swelling around the affected tooth.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay Or Cavity
- Brush your teeth regularly. At least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply light pressure. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush after every 3, 4 months of use.
- Rinse your mouth daily with a fluoride-containing mouthwash. It will keep your teeth healthy as well as your gums.
- Visit your dentist regularly for oral exams and professional teeth cleaning. It can help you to prevent problems or spot them early.
- Eat nutritious foods and have balanced meals. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid carbohydrates like candy, chips, sweets, and limit snacks which can remain on the tooth surface.
Also, cut back on sugary and acidic drinks.
- Drink fluoridated water which can help to reduce tooth decay significantly. It is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to prevent cavity.
- Stop smoking and eating tobacco. Most people don’t realize that what harm smoking and oral tobacco can do to the mouth, gums, and teeth.
Smoking and tobacco not just stain your teeth, this destructive habit can also lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and even oral cancer.
In brief
Don’t worry now, just keep all these tips in your mind to stay away from a dentist. Your little attention can protect you from bigger pain. So why not follow them!