Cavities affect people of all ages and lifestyles, and they can cause serious damage to the teeth, gums, and jawbone. While visiting the dentist will help your oral health, it’s up to you to keep up with good oral health care habits at home. The pediatric dentists at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK, recommend taking some precautionary measures to protect your mouth from cavities and the bacteria associated with them. 

Follow these tips, courtesy of your pediatric dentist, to keep your mouth healthy and prevent cavities:

• Use Fluoride: Fluoride serves as a protective barrier, making your teeth more resistant to bacteria and sugars in the mouth, which are the causes of cavities. Use toothpaste and mouthwash containing fluoride for extra protection. Brush at least twice per day, and use a mouth rinse as directed by your dentist.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks & Snacks: The sugar in food stays on the teeth and reacts with the bacteria in the mouth to create acids, which eat through your tooth enamel. Drinking sugary beverages and eating snacks throughout the day will mean your mouth is constantly producing these acids.
• Visit Your Dentist: Regular trips to the dentist allow them to do a thorough cleaning and inspection of your mouth. The earlier your dentist finds signs of tooth decay, the easier it is to treat and avoid damage. Most patients visit once every six months, but your dentist may recommend a different schedule if you are particularly susceptible to tooth decay.
• Talk About Sealants: The CDC recommends sealants for all school-age children. These sealants are a protective coating placed over the grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. This area is where bacteria tends to thrive. Talk with your dentist about whether sealants could help you and your children.

Dr. Murdoch and Dr. Winthrop at BridgeView Dental Group understand each of their patients is unique and can help you find a plan for your own oral health. They offer sedation dentistry to put you at ease if you get anxious in the dentist’s chair. Contact them at (907) 486-3257 to schedule your appointment with a pediatric dentist for tooth implants, cleanings, and orthodontics.