5 Ways To Lower Your Cavity Risk

Without routine care both in-office and at home, you can develop painful cavities that threaten your smile’s health and stability. Fortunately, with better oral hygiene habits and a few changes to your daily routine, you can help your smile stay free of tooth decay. Find out how your Albuquerque, NM, dentist helps patients enjoy a lower risk of cavities.

Reduce Your Cavity Risk

1. Cut Back on Sugary Foods and Drinks: When we consume foods and drink with high amounts of sugar and starch, this leaves behind particles for bacteria to break down. As bacteria consume these particles, the teeth become coated in a layer of plaque buildup, which eventually weakens and erodes the enamel. Your smile is then likely to develop cavities. Instead, try to add more fresh fruit and veggies to your diet, as well as nuts, cheeses, sugar-free gum, and water.
2. Take a Second Look at “Healthy” Foods and Drinks: Fruit smoothies and fruit juice do contain vitamins and minerals, but they also have a high amount of sugar, which could lead to cavities. While fresh fruit contains water to help wash away sugar particles, dried fruit does not, and can stick to your teeth as well. Be aware of the sugar and starch content of “healthy” snack choices!
3. Brush and Floss Your Teeth: When you brush and floss your teeth at home, you remove food particles from on and between the teeth. You should brush your teeth when you wake up and again before going to bed. Each session should take about two minutes. We suggest using a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste that contains fluoride. You also need to floss up and down the length of each side of every tooth before going to bed.
4. See Us For Exams and Cleanings: While brushing and flossing can help limit plaque buildup, only a thorough dental cleaning can completely remove this sticky bacterial byproduct from your smile. You should have your smile examined and cleaned every six months to maintain optimal oral health.
5. Don’t Ignore Pain in Your Smile: Be aware of tooth sensitivity and toothaches, as pain in your smile could indicate the presence of a cavity. Be sure to see us right away so we can perform a diagnosis and see if you need treatment. If you have any questions about lowering your cavity risk, then contact our team today.

Do Need a Checkup and Cleaning Appointment?

If you want to make sure your smile stays free of tooth decay, then let us know. For more information on our preventive and restorative treatments, then schedule a consultation with us by calling Snow Park Dental in Albuquerque, NM, today at (505) 596-4479.

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