Cavities are a very common dental issue, though they can typically be prevented by following some oral hygiene practices faithfully. In addition to getting regular teeth cleanings from an oral health professional, this also involves caring for your teeth at home. Learn more about how to protect against tooth decay below.

How to Guard Against Tooth Decay & Cavities

1. Brush Twice Daily

You should be brushing your teeth at least twice per day, and more often if you eat sugary or sticky foods. When you brush, use a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. If you’re unsure about which type of toothpaste to use, ask your dentist for suggestions during your next oral exam. Finally, avoid rinsing with water, since this will flush the fluoride out of your mouth. Instead, use a high-quality fluoride mouthwash for rinsing.

2. Floss Once Per Day

Even the best toothbrush won’t get in hard-to-reach crevices between your teeth. Unfortunately, the same isn’t true for sugar and small food particles. At bedtime, or after your last meal of the day, floss between your teeth to pull those food particles free. Then, as you brush, you’ll be able to flush more food and sugar out of your mouth.

3. Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings

You should schedule a teeth cleaning every six months, because your dentist will be able to provide a deeper level of clean. Also, you’ll undergo an exam at each visit that’s designed to identify problems early. If gum disease or tooth decay is allowed to develop without treatment, it'll cause more severe issues that could require a root canal or other types of oral surgery. However, spotting tooth decay early usually only requires a brief drill and fill procedure, which will be faster and simpler.

4. Adopt a Healthier Diet

The foods you eat will affect your oral health as much as your physical health. In particular, stay away from processed foods and beverages that contain large amounts of sugar. When you eat or drink something sugary, the sugar sticks to your teeth and becomes perfect food for the bacteria in your mouth. Together, the sugar and bacteria form an acid that eats away at the enamel of your teeth. As a result, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities by cutting sugar from your diet and eating more nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.

To maintain healthy and strong teeth, schedule a teeth cleaning every six months with Syracuse Straight Smiles in Liverpool, NY. Their family-friendly staff works hard to provide each patient with a positive experience, and the dentist regularly reaches out to patients to ensure they’re having a good aftercare experience. To learn more about the dental services they offer, visit their website. To schedule an office visit, call (315) 628-8373.