Dental Decay: How to Prevent it?
Dental decay is one of the biggest preventable non-communicable disease that can be easily preventable.
Dental decay is one of the biggest preventable non-communicable disease that can be easily preventable. However due to poor dietary choices, improper oral hygiene and irregular dental visits can lead to progression of dental decay resulting in cavity/hole.
The best ways to prevent a dental cavity is:
- By brushing and flossing daily, as this can help with reducing the amount of dental plaque and bacteria which contribute to the progression of a cavity
- Reducing sugar and carbohydrates in your diet and/or the frequency you eat these kinds of foods in a day. As these kinds of foods allow bacteria to produce acid which can result in the destruction of tooth tissue
- Drinking water and avoiding sweet drinks. Not only does tap water contain fluoride which is also beneficial for preventing decay but water also has a neutral pH which can maintain a stable environment in the mouth (thus minimizing acid producing bacteria)
- Using an age appropriate fluoridated toothpaste is crucial for prevention of dental decay. It is scientifically proven the benefits fluoride can have in preventing or minimizing decay
- Chewing gum after meals can help stimulate saliva flow which can wash away food debris and keep your mouth at a neutral pH/environment
- Visiting your dentist is important, as prevention is always better than a cure. Usually your dental health professional can detect early signs of decay and help you to remineralise or prevent cavitation from occurring
