Flossing daily is one of the most important ways to prevent tooth decay.
Tooth decay destroys tooth enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, while plaque, a bacteria film on the teeth, leads to the onset of cavities, which rot the dentin, or inner, layer of teeth. To prevent tooth decay, follow these helpful tips to protect your teeth.
1. Brush and floss
Dentists recommend you brush at least twice a day with an American Dental Association-approved toothpaste and floss daily with an interdental cleaner or floss. The best practice is to brush after every meal and before going to bed. You should brush at least two minutes at night.
2. Rinse
Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for 30 seconds a night to prevent the buildup of plaque on teeth.
3. Nutrition
Eat a balanced, nutritious diet, while avoiding foods with high sugar and high carbohydrate content. Sugar and carbs stick to plaque and eat away at your teeth, causing decay and cavities. Brush after eating sticky foods.
4. Floride
Ask your dentist about the use of supplemental fluoride, which can help strength teeth.
5. Sealants
Check into dental sealants, a protective coating applied by dentists to prevent decay.
6. Dentist
Visit your dentist for cleanings and oral exams at least once every six months. Protecting your teeth helps maintain your overall health, preventing decay, abscesses and infections, which can lead to even more serious health problems in the entire body.
