Do you struggle with cavities? Perhaps you dread going to the dentist for fear that you’ll find out you have another cavity. Or maybe you just want to avoid dental problems before they start. Either way, it’s time to take control of your dental health. At Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., we believe in helping every patient find a path to oral wellness.
By scheduling an appointment with Dr. Horblitt and his team, you’re taking a significant step toward preventing future cavities. Call us at (203) 335-1011 to book your appointment. In this post, we’ll be discussing proactive steps you can take to prevent future cavities.
What are cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries, are areas of decay on the tooth caused by the buildup of acidic byproducts in the mouth. These acidic byproducts can harm the teeth by eating away at teeth and creating small holes in tooth enamel that can worsen over time.
Some signs of a new cavity include dark spots on the tooth and sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary food and beverages. Additionally, you may notice new grooves or pits in the tooth, experience toothaches, or feel pain when biting down.
Brush Teeth Twice Daily
Brushing your teeth twice daily or after each meal is essential for cavity prevention. It’s a proven way to preserve your teeth and their protective enamel. Use fluoride toothpaste to get the most from your twice-daily toothbrushing habit. Always brush for two minutes at a time with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Why it works: Brushing teeth is necessary for removing plaque, the bacteria-laden film that forms on teeth after eating. The fluoride in toothpaste then helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to harmful bacteria.
Floss Every Day
Brushing your teeth twice daily may seem enough, but don’t stop there! Flossing is essential for cavity prevention because toothbrush bristles cannot reach the tiny nooks and crannies between every tooth. You can use traditional floss or products such as floss picks or air flossers to gently remove plaque from each tooth and the surrounding gums.
Why it works: Flossing removes food particles and plaque. Plaque that remains on the teeth hardens into a harmful substance called tartar, which must be removed by a dentist. By flossing daily, you are getting ahead of tartar before it leads to cavities.
Limit Sugary Foods and Beverages
Sugar is known to increase acid production in the mouth, which often leads to tooth enamel erosion. As explained previously, holes in tooth enamel are what cause cavities to form.
Why it works: Limiting the amount of sugar you consume can help reduce acid production in the mouth. By reducing sugar consumption, you are staving harmful bacteria from their food source and giving your teeth a cleaner, healthier environment where they can thrive.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Ultimately, no matter how frequently you clean your teeth at home, there’s no substitute for regular professional dental cleanings.
Why it works: Professional dental cleanings are essential for removing any plaque or tartar buildup you might have missed. Make sure to get a dentist appointment on your calendar as soon as possible so that your dentist can spot issues early on and treat cavities before they lead to more severe problems.
Call Dr. Horbliit today at (203) 335-1011 or schedule your appointment online. We are here to help you get ahead of cavities and achieve your healthiest smile today.
