Cavity Prevention - Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities

No one wants to be told by their dentist that they have tooth decay, but this oral health complication can occur even in the best of circumstances. Understand why cavities develop, what makes you more susceptible, and how to maintain excellent cavity prevention with help from the dental team at Bethesda Family Dental in Bethesda, MD.

Cavity Prevention - Bethesda Family Dentistry

Cavity Prevention Methods

You are far less likely to develop tooth decay or find yourself in an emergency dentistry situation if you take good care of your teeth and gums every day. Keeping your smile healthy requires only a few minutes of your time every day, along with support from your Bethesda dentist. Here is what you can do for cavity prevention:

See your dentist every six months: Regular visits to your general dentist means the dental hygienist cleans away plaque and bacteria build-up, X-rays are taken to see what’s going on within your teeth, and your dentist conducts a dental exam to look for trouble areas so they can be addressed before they get bigger.
Maintain a daily oral hygiene routine: The bare minimum in oral hygiene is to brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and consider using mouthwash if you are cavity prone. Other tools can be even more helpful, like a water pik which thoroughly cleans between teeth.
Ask about preventive treatments: Dental sealants are often considered a measure for protecting kids’ newly erupted permanent molars, but some adults can benefit from this topical treatment as well as fluoride treatments, especially if you are prone to cavities.
Limit sugar: Relying on energy drinks, soda, and sugary coffee all day might keep you going but they won’t do your oral health any favors. Teeth that are constantly coated in a sugar bath from constant sipping or snacking are far more susceptible to tooth decay.
Drink water: There is nothing that can substitute for a good oral hygiene routine, but swishing water around after sugary or clingy foods can help a little in a pinch rather than allowing food particles and bacteria to linger on your teeth.

Patients Susceptible to Tooth Decay

Some people take great care of their teeth and still end up with cavities. Others barely do the recommended work and seem to avoid tooth decay entirely. This unfairness could be the result of any of the following circumstances:

Genetics: If your parents have weak or thin tooth enamel, you are likely to as well, which means a greater chance of developing tooth decay.
Tooth shape: Some people have teeth that are jagged or bumpy and tooth enamel that isn’t smooth. This makes it easier for food or bacteria to stick around and cause cavities.
Crowded teeth: There is a reason that Invisalign is promoted as making your teeth healthier – straight teeth are easier to clean. Hard-to-reach areas are far more likely to develop tooth decay in tight spaces.
Dental anxiety: Patients with a fear of the dentist may avoid going to their Bethesda dentist, even for a regular cleaning, and this anxiety can cause oral health complications.

Patients Susceptible to Tooth Decay - Bethesda Family Dentistry

Get Cavity Prevention Help from Your Bethesda Dentist

Frequent cavities simply happen to some people. It’s inconvenient and unfortunate, but if you reach out to your dental practice right away, the problem can be accurately diagnosed and treated before it has the chance to turn into a deep infection and bigger problem. Cavities only go away with professional intervention.

Solutions like tooth-colored fillings and dental bonding can serve as simple, effective cavity prevention methods before decay can grow too large. The dentists at Bethesda Family Dental are ready to help you with as many measures of cavity prevention as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.