5 Effective Tips on How to Prevent Cavities in Children and Adults

09 Sep. 2022

Tooth decay is the second most prevalent illness in humans, behind the common cold. In the United States, 90% of people have at least one cavity, and one in every four has untreated cavities. Cavities affect more than half of all teenagers aged 12 to 19. Cavities, commonly known as tooth decay and caries, can have major implications for your oral health as well as your general health. 

Toothache and chewing issues can be especially difficult for children. Cavities can have a detrimental influence on a person's lifestyle. In general, earlier cavity discovery makes treatment easier and less expensive. In this article, we have gathered five effective tips on how to prevent cavities in children and adults

1. Be aware of the symptoms of tooth decay

Specific symptoms and indicators of cavities include the following:

• Tooth sensitivity that affects only one tooth rather than numerous teeth at the same time 
• Bad breath, since the bacteria that are responsible for bad breath also cause tooth decay and cavities. Cavities also destroy your enamel, creating an enticing spot for bacteria to hide
• Toothaches that are produced by cavities are generally worse after eating or drinking, especially after eating sweets
• Pain during biting or chewing
• Visible dark patches or holes

2. Maintain proper oral hygiene

The answer to the question of when and how frequently you should brush your teeth each day is easy. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended by the American Dental Association. Make sure you brush for two minutes or more each time. Brushing your teeth, particularly after eating or drinking sugary drinks, assists in the removal of food and plaque.

Brushing your teeth is important for maintaining excellent oral health, but it is not enough. It is also critical to floss your teeth every day and to get the floss between all of your teeth, including those in the back. Flossing allows you to reach areas that your toothbrush cannot. It also guarantees that little food particles are eliminated from between your teeth.

3. Consider fluoride treatment

If you don't receive enough fluoride or are at risk of tooth decay, fluoride treatment can help. Fluoride prevents tooth decay by making your teeth more resistant to plaque bacteria and the acids they produce. Fluoride levels in professional fluoride treatments are high (yet safe) for optimal protection. They are frequently available as gel, foam, or varnish.

4. Maintain a healthy diet

Healthy foods are beneficial for your teeth in the same way that they are good for other parts of your body. Consume nutritious foods such as cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables, non-sugary beverages, sugar-free gum, and so on. This sort of nutritious diet will help to prevent the development of cavities.

Several studies have suggested that adults and children should restrict their use of carbonated beverages to no more than twelve ounces per day. Juice boxes, soft drinks, and energy drinks fall under this category. Sugar-free or diet options are not always "better." Carbonated drinks are acidic. Even carbonated water has a pH of about 4.0.

5. Undergo regular teeth cleaning

Visiting your dentist on a regular basis for teeth cleanings and oral exams is an essential part of maintaining a healthy mouth. Professional teeth cleanings assist in the removal of plaque. A dentist can recognize issues early on when they are easier and less expensive to fix. Most dentists also provide preventative treatment to assist prevent issues from occurring. Your dentist can advise you on the finest cleaning methods to use in order to optimize your oral hygiene practices.

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