Tooth decay is an oral health problem that commonly affects people in the United States. Most people do not know how to avoid it. You can efficiently evade tooth decay and cavities by following a few steps. Read on to learn how to do so.

Brush Your Teeth Often

Everyone has harmless bacteria living in their mouths. But once you put food in your mouth, the bacteria aid digestion by attacking the food. The bacteria continue producing acid that will start eating your teeth away after food gets digested.

Your crown will get irritated, and the decaying process will start. Plaque takes approximately twenty minutes to develop. However, brushing your teeth soon after you eat helps clear the sticky plaque that can damage your teeth.

Ensure you use fluoride toothpaste and brush twice every day to remove any plaque that may grow after you eat

Floss Regularly

Most people do not enjoy flossing their teeth. You need to clean all five sides of your teeth every day. Daily brushing only cleans three sides of your teeth. So if you fail to floss, brushing your teeth cleans almost half the surface of your teeth.

Flossing your teeth does not have to be a stressful task. You can do it while multitasking as you read a book or watch television. Ideally, do it before bedtime or after a meal. You can floss while on the go and develop the habit of healthy teeth to avoid tooth decay.

Avoid Excess Sugar

Eating high amounts of sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay if you leave it on your teeth for too long. Sucking on sweets or candy for a long time can damage your teeth. Avoid chewing gum with sugar. The sugar-free option will protect your teeth from decaying.

Regular Visits to the Dentist 

Book biannual appointments at the dentist to help maintain proper oral hygiene. Your specialist at Riverview Dental will identify potential issues that can increase your risk for a dental cavity. You will get your teeth thoroughly cleaned to improve dental hygiene. Your dentist will also treat any problems you have and create a schedule to suit you.

Tap Water

Tap water is the best when it comes to preventing tooth decay or cavities due to the fluoride it has. Fluoride is an element that helps fight tooth decay. Drinking fluoridated water strengthens teeth without the use of fluorine as a substitute.

Fluoride protects teeth from substances in plaque that can harm your teeth. It stops tooth decay during the early stages. You increase your risk of missing fluoride if you frequently drink bottled water. Your dentist may recommend a mouth rinse that contains fluoride if they believe you have a high cavity risk.

Quit Smoking

Doctors advise against smoking as it causes various medical problems. It can disable and harm your body organs. You can also experience diseases that can shorten your life span. Oral tobacco and smoking harm your teeth, gums, and mouth. It stains teeth and leads to tooth loss, gum disease, and oral cancer.

For more about preventing tooth decay, visit Riverview Dental at our office in Corunna, Michigan. Call 989.743.4851 to book an appointment today.