Reducing your risk of cavities is much easier than you might think. Practicing good oral hygiene routines is a start, but making mindful choices about what you do (or do not) put into your mouth can also help minimize your risk of cavities.
Here are a few practical (and simple) tips for keeping cavities away!
- Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes to remove sugars and food particles from your teeth.
- Limit between-meal snacking.
- Keep added sugar in your diet to a minimum by making wise food and beverage choices.
- Include dairy, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and water in your diet—they all play a role in your dental health.
How does food impact occurrence of cavities?
The foods and beverages you consume have a direct influence on the occurrence and progression of tooth decay, based on a few factors:
- Whether the food is liquid or solid, sticky or soft and how the food dissolves.
- How often you eat sugary or acidic foods and beverages.
- Order in which you each certain foods or the combinations you eat foods in.
- Nutritional makeup of the food.
Quick Tip :: Chew (Sugarless) Gum
Studies have proven that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food debris and helps strengthen tooth enamel.
If you have any questions or concerns on cavities and decay, please contact us or tell us at your next exam!
