Tooth cavities are one of the most common dental issues faced by almost everyone regardless of age. There can be a lot of reasons for cavities between teeth. However, lack of proper dental hygiene can be one of the main reasons for the same.
If you are someone who consumes more sugary foods, and snacks a lot without flossing your mouth properly, then you are more likely to have tooth cavities, since there can possibly be an overgrowth of bacteria inside your oral cavity. In this article, we will discuss effective tips and tricks you may use to stop those cavities from worsening and prevent new cavities from appearing on your teeth.
Cavities And Tooth Decay: How to Reverse It?
Tooth decay occurs when teeth are exposed to acid, particularly sugar and starch-containing foods or drinks. This causes enamel to lose minerals, resulting in white spots. While enamel can repair itself with saliva and fluoride, prolonged decay weakens enamel, forming cavities that require dental repair.
1. Brush Regularly
Regular brushing is the key when it comes to keeping your teeth hygienic and away from any possible bacterial infections that may further lead to a cavity between teeth. It is usually advised to brush your teeth two times a day.
However, if you are vulnerable to tooth cavities, then it is better to brush after every meal you consume. It is also important that you use fluoride-containing toothpaste to serve the purpose. Also, do not forget to miss out on the gaps between your teeth. You may use interdental cleaning equipment for the same.
2. Mouth Rinsing
Just like brushing your teeth during regular intervals, it is also important that you rinse your mouth regularly using a mouthwash. There are a lot of options available in the market when it comes to mouthwashes. However, it is important to look for fluoride-containing mouthwashes or just as recommended by your dentist.
You may also ask the frequency of rinsing your mouth to your dentist. If you are not at home and cannot brush your teeth after every meal, you may consider using a mouthwash instead of a toothbrush and toothpaste.
3. Regular Visits To The Dentist
Your visits to the dentist should not be on occasions when you are suffering from an unbearable toothache or for dental corrections. Make it a habit to visit your dentist regularly. Some dental conditions cannot be examined individually and your dentist would find it for you which can also help in starting treatments and fixations at an early stage.
If you are concerned about the right frequency to visit your dentist, do not worry, your dentist can recommend the right frequency after analyzing your current dental conditions.
4. Dental Sealants
Dental Sealants are a great option if it is for children particularly. Children will not be that particular about caring for their teeth especially when they are at school or out for games. They might not do mouth rinse or brush their teeth after every meal. In such situations, dental sealants can be considered.
These are a kind of plastic coating that protects the chewing surface of the teeth from any kind of bacterial infections. Apart from that, these coatings can also protect the enamel on the surface of the teeth from acid and plaque attacks.
5. Tap Water
This preventive measure may sound a bit weird, however, this practice has immense benefits when it comes to your oral hygiene and dental health. Tap water contains a high amount of fluorides that may help you protect your teeth.
However, while drinking tap water for this dental benefit, it is important to make sure that the tap water in your area is not contaminated. You may only drink this water occasionally and there is no need to drink it on a daily basis.
6. Stay Away From Frequent Snack Munching
If you have the habit of snacking more frequently, then you are exposing your teeth to infections. Sipping sugary drinks more often can also cause the same risk to your teeth. When you are obsessed with these habits, it may not be practically possible to brush your teeth after every snack and it may also cause enamel erosion.
Also Read:- How To Fix Overcrowded Teeth? Causes Of Overcrowded Teeth
End Result
These are some of the most effective preventive measures and remedies you may use to stop further tooth cavities. However, apart from all these, it is also highly important that you consume more nutritious food items that help in building calcium and strengthening your teeth. Staying hydrated can also help to a great extent.
References:
- Petersen PE, Bourgeois D, Ogawa H, Estupinan-Day S, Ndiaye C. The global burden of oral diseases and risks to oral health. Bull World Health Organ. 2005 Sep;83(9):661-9.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2626328/ - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/fast-facts/cavities/index.html - Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Cavities/tooth decay: Diagnosis.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/basics/preparing-for-your-appointment/con-20030076
