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How to Reduce Your Risk of Dental Cavities

At Haileybury Dental we want to make sure that you have a healthy and happy smile. Cavities, also called tooth decay or dental caries, are one of the most common diseases people get and live with during their lifetime.

 

Maintaining good oral health and reducing your risk of dental cavities involves more than just regular brushing and flossing. Incorporating a few key practices into your daily routine can make a significant difference and help reduce your risk of dental disease.

 

Follow these essential tips to keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free:

1. “Brush Up on Your Brushing Skills!”

  • Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily, once in the morning and once before bedtime. It is best to brush 15 to 20 minutes after you have eaten.

  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and spend at least two minutes brushing all surfaces of your teeth.

  • For a more thorough clean, consider using an electric toothbrush, which can help ensure you’re brushing effectively and evenly and can even have built-in timers to ensure you brush long enough.

2. “Floss Like a Boss!”

  • Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline which your toothbrush can’t reach.

  • Gently slide the floss between your teeth and curve it around each tooth in a C-shape moving it up and down a few times.

  • If you cannot use regular floss due to dexterity issues, you can use floss sticks or try a water flosser.
     

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3. “Mouthwash Magic: Rinse and Shine!”

  • Incorporate an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash into your routine to help reduce plaque, fight bacteria, and strengthen tooth enamel.

  • Mouthwashes are best if they are alcohol-free, as alcohol can dry out your mouth.

  • Please follow the individual product instructions for the best results.
     

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4. “Snack Attack: Choose Wisely!”

  • Limit your intake of sugary snacks and beverages, as these can contribute to cavity formation.

  • Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

  • Foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, are beneficial for your teeth and the bones that house your teeth.
     

5. “Hydrate to Keep Your Smile Great!”

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food particles and bacteria, and to neutralize acids produced by bacteria in your mouth.

  • This is especially important for people who may suffer from dry mouth, as saliva helps protect against cavities and wash away food.
     

6. “Checkups: The Tooth Fairy’s Best Friend!”

  • Visit us regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. We recommend a dental checkup once every 9 to 12 months and a dental cleaning every 6 to 12 months.

  • Regular visits help catch early signs of cavities and other oral health issues, so we can address them before they become bigger problems.

  • If you have significant dental issues like gum disease or tooth decay, we might suggest more frequent visits to keep your smile in top shape.
     

7. “Seal the Deal with Sealants!”

  • Sealants are protective coatings that are especially important for children aged 6 to 12 years old but can be used on older patients as well.

  • Sealants help prevent or delay the formation of cavities on the permanent adult molars by smoothening out the pitted and grooved chewing surfaces of back teeth.

  • Food and bacteria do not get trapped as easily on chewing surfaces of teeth when they are smooth.
     

8. “Kick the Habit: Tobacco and Smoke-Free Smiles!”

  • Refrain from or reduce the use of tobacco products and any form of smoking.

  • Tobacco products of smoking significantly increase your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.

  • If you need help quitting, your dentist can provide resources and support.
     

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9. “Fluoride: The Secret Superhero for Your Teeth!”

  • Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to tooth decay.

  • In addition to fluoride toothpaste, you can consider using fluoride mouth rinses or gels if recommended by your dentist.

  • We often recommend applying professional-strength fluoride varnishes to your teeth at your cleaning appointments.
     

10. “Snack Smarter: Less is More!”

  • Frequent snacking, especially on sugary or acidic foods, can increase your risk of cavities.

  • Try to limit snacking and drinking sugary beverages between meals.

  • Opt for healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables, or nuts.

  • If you do snack, choose options that are less likely to stick to your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
     

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can significantly reduce your risk of dental cavities and maintain optimal oral health. Remember, if you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to ask us during your visit.

Haileybury Dental is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile!

Please call 705-672-3141 or book your dental checkup and cleaning.
 

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