3 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues in both children and adults in America. However, there is much that can be done to prevent this disease. Changing a few habits and taking better care of your teeth is all you need to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and rotten teeth.

What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in your mouth that collect in a sticky film on your teeth known as plaque. The bacteria feed off sugary foods and drinks and produce an acid which, if not cleaned away by brushing your teeth, can eat away at your tooth’s outer layer called enamel.

Once a hole is created in the enamel of your tooth, then the bacteria can get into the inner layers of your tooth, creating more problems that can become quite severe. The resulting hole in your tooth is known as a cavity. If this situation is not seen by a dentist then the bacteria can spread to the dental pulp causing inflammation and killing off the nerves and blood vessels which leads to the rotten tooth dyeing.

3 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay

Our staff at Dental Ben’s have put together three simple steps to prevent this from happening.

1. Maintain a good oral hygiene regime which includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, using floss daily, changing your toothbrush every three months and scheduling routine checkups and cleanings with your dentist.
2. Change your diet. Try avoiding sugary or acidic drinks such as soda and sports drinks. If this is not possible, drinking through a straw can help reduce the exposure of the teeth to the sugar.
3. Take a multivitamin that contains calcium, magnesium and vitamin D to help your body replenish your tooth’s enamel.

Tooth Decay Symptoms

Initially, tooth decay will appear as a small white or brown dot on your tooth which may be difficult for you to notice. This is why dental checkups are so important. Your dentist will be able to spot tooth decay right away and resolve the problem before it gets worse.

If left untended, tooth decay can cause a toothache, pain when chewing or biting, sensitivity to hot or cold, persistent bad breath or a nasty taste in your mouth.

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms do not hesitate to call our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ben Cooperman. Call: (623) 289-9334.  We are here to take care of you!