Dental cavities are damaged areas on the hard surface of the teeth, which appear as tiny holes. They're caused by the bacteria on teeth, which creates an acidic film called plaque. The acids in plaque remineralise your enamel, spreading to the layer underneath and potentially causing cavities.
Not very appealing, right? Thankfully, there are plenty of simple ways to prevent cavities and keep your teeth healthy and clean. That's why we here at White Glo have created a list featuring seven of the best ways to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
1. Develop a good brushing routine
Brushing your teeth is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent cavities and tooth decay. It's recommended that you brush at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Having good brushing habits will help fight off the plaque-forming bacteria on your teeth, which can lead to cavities.
2. Use proper brushing technique
The technique you use when brushing your teeth is just as important as the frequency. Manoeuver your brush to a 45-degree angle against your gums. Begin brushing in short strokes that clean the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each individual tooth. You can then use the tip of your brush to clean your front teeth using vertical strokes.
3. Floss every day
Our teeth have five sides, and thoroughly cleaning all of them without flossing is essentially impossible. That's why you should absolutely get into the habit of flossing every day, even if it's only for a minute or two. The optimal time to floss is the same for brushing your teeth, before bed and after meals.
4. Adjust your diet
Sadly, your beloved morning coffee could be increasing your risk of developing cavities. There are so many foods and drinks that cause tooth decay, including a lot of the sugary stuff we all love, like chocolate, sweets, jams, biscuits, and sweet cereals.
This is because of the acid produced by the bacteria in our mouth when we break down sugar. This acid then damages the tooth surface, which leads to tooth decay and cavities. It's not all bad news, though. You can still enjoy your favourite treats in moderation.
5. Rinse with mouthwash
Another simple yet effective way of preventing cavities is to rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. The ingredients in mouthwash, like fluoride, help remove the plaque and bacteria from your mouth. Mouthwash also freshens your breath. What's not to love?
6. Quit smoking cigarettes
Most people know that smoking is linked to various medical problems, including cancer and heart disease. However, smoking is also a major cause of tooth decay and can damage your mouth and gums. This damage can lead to cavities, as well as tooth loss and gum disease.
7. Make a dentist appointment
You could have a cavity right now and not even be aware of it! It's an unpleasant thought, but many cavities develop without causing any symptoms. That's why it's important to see your dentist regularly. If you've developed a cavity, they can provide you with an early diagnosis and immediate care before the situation worsens
Protect your teeth with White Glo
Since our founding in 1993, White Glo has been dedicated to developing premium dental care products that keep teeth bright, beautiful, and healthy. As an Australian-owned and vegan-friendly business, our clients trust us to keep their teeth free of plaque and bacteria.
If you have any other questions about how to prevent tooth decay, our products, or anything else, please contact us at your convenience.