Gum disease and cavities can be painful and uncomfortable, but luckily, it doesn't take much effort to practice healthy habits. At Oahu Dental Care in Pearl City and Honolulu, their dentists and staff will guide you toward the best at-home practices and preventative care so you can keep your mouth healthy—and avoid unnecessary complications.

What can you do to keep your teeth and gums healthy? The Oahu dentists explain:

• Floss Daily: Everyone knows they need to brush at least twice a day, but many stop short when it comes to flossing. If you don't floss, you allow tartar and harmful bacteria to develop in the gaps between your teeth. Flossing is an easy way to prevent tooth loss, cavities, and gum problems, so make the time to do it every day.
• Avoid Sugar: Hard candies, soft drinks, and other sugary foods create acid that eats away at your tooth enamel, making your teeth more sensitive to cavities and infections. If you decide to indulge in a sugary snack, drink lots of water to rinse your mouth and brush your teeth when you're finished eating.
• Use Fluoride: Make sure the toothpaste you use has fluoride in it, because this helps to restore the enamel on your teeth. Many municipal water systems include fluoride in their tap water supplies, but you should also talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments to stave off tooth decay.

Of course, regular visits to the dentist are key to preventative dentistry; the sooner problems are caught, the easier it will be to receive treatment. Call Oahu Dental Care today at (808) 456-5005 to set up an appointment in Pearl City, or dial (808) 732-2821 to reach their Honolulu practice. If you'd like to learn more about the dentists and cavity prevention, you can also visit Oahu Dental Care online.