As with most of your well-being, the state of your oral health starts with you. The choices that you make day to day play a huge role in cavity prevention. In spite of how much you rely on your teeth for eating, speaking, and supporting your entire facial features, your teeth are often taken for granted.
Cavity prevention is an essential component of not only your oral health but also your overall health. The health of your mouth has a direct implication on your heart, your immune system, diabetes, pregnancy, and more. The good news is that cavity prevention is easy by following these simple guidelines.
- Floss daily. One of the most important things you need to know is that flossing is the most important aspect of cavity prevention. Floss is the only tool designed to scrape bacteria-laden plaque from the teeth and gum line. If you are not flossing every day, your teeth will never reach their full health. With just a little practice, flossing becomes easy and a natural part of your dental routine.
- Brush often. Brushing twice a day, morning and before bed, is important because it brushes away loosened plaque. Yet, for those who are cavity-prone, it is important to brush more often. Brushing after every meal helps to remove food particles that get stuck between the teeth before they begin to rot.
- Uphold a healthy diet. What you put into your mouth has a huge impact on the health of your mouth and entire body. Diets that are heavy in sugar, acids, and/or alcohol weaken the tooth enamel and gum tissues. A poor diet also negatively impacts your overall health. When poor oral health meets poor general health, your immune system becomes strained and is less capable of fighting off infection. What you put into your mouth affects your entire life.
- Stop negative habits. Biting your nails, chewing ice, smoking, chewing tobacco, over-consumption of alcohol, grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw – all of these put a strain on your teeth, gums, and oral health. By breaking negative habits, you can prevent cavities and save your smile.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Regular dental visits allow for your teeth to be thoroughly and professionally cleaned on a routine basis. Making the time to visit the dentist just twice a year can prevent many issues that can wreak havoc on your oral health.
Cavity prevention is not hard. The guidelines above can help protect your smile for a lifetime. Contact Thousand Oaks Dentistry today.
