Essential Tooth Decay Prevention Tips

Nov

2023

Posted on November 1, 2023February 6, 2024 by Namami1

Your smile is a window to your confidence and well-being, and protecting it from the lurking threat of tooth decay is paramount. Tooth decay, often referred to as cavities or dental caries, is a common oral health issue that affects people of all ages. However, the good news is that with the right knowledge, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing these unwanted companions in your mouth. Check out our preventive measures below. Dr. Hachee and the team are here to get all of your questions answered — and ensure your care is unparalleled. Remember, we are always here for those semi-annual cleanings. We are dedicated to your quick and seamless visits — so please, do not avoid visiting us because of fear or concern — it can only steamroll into further issues. We will chat with you about your concerns and ensure we do all we can for your comfort!

Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin layer of the tooth.Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities.

To prevent tooth decay:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after each meal and especially before going to bed.
Clean between your teeth daily with dental floss or interdental cleaners, such as the Oral-B Interdental Brush, Reach Stim-U-Dent, or Sulcabrush.
Rinse daily with a fluoride-containing mouthwash. Some rinses also have antiseptic ingredients to help kill bacteria that cause plaque.
Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks. Avoid carbohydrates such as candy, pretzels and chips, which can remain on the tooth surface. If sticky foods are eaten, brush your teeth soon afterwards.
Check with your dentist about using supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth.
Ask your dentist about dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay.
Drink fluoridated water. At least a pint of fluoridated water each day is needed to protect children from tooth decay.
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Researchers are developing new means to prevent tooth decay. One study found that a chewing gum that contains the sweetener xylitol temporarily retarded the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, several materials that slowly release fluoride over time, which will help prevent further decay, are being explored. These materials would be placed between teeth or in pits and fissures of teeth. Toothpastes and mouth rinses that can reverse and “heal” early cavities are also being studied.

Is your dental check-up due? Our experienced team can assess your oral health and provide personalized protection from tooth decay. Your smile deserves the best care, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Call us today at (760) 721-8888. Follow us on Instagram @oceanside_dentalcare to unlock more tips to a healthy, radiant smile.

Reference: [https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/tooth-decay-prevention]

Renae Bellamy

2024-01-24

Amazing staff. So friendly and so knowledgeable. I felt like I was with family. So blessed to be a new patient there. Everyone is there for the right reasons. You can tell they love their job and meeting people and helping everyone to a healthy smile!

Hans Klein

2024-01-11

Minimal wait time. Hygienist was great

Nicole Fryer

2024-01-04

Great as always. Had a new hygienist and she was amazing, I experienced no pain and her technique was actually relaxing. That is not a word I would ever think to use when going to the dentist. I love all the office staff and they are very accommodating with scheduling. We’re going on year 2 with Oside family dental and plan to stay!

Terri S

2023-12-13

Small office but great dental professioonals, very nice front office staff. They don't overdo it with needless fillings. A few years ago another dentist told me I had 7 cavities and I knew that wasn't true. So fast forward to Monday and I had 1 cavity after a full mouth xray and individual xrays. I am smart enough to know cavities don't heal themselves.

Alyssa Price

2023-12-06

All the staff here are so helpful! Especially Rob, he explains everything that’s going on in your mouth so you can be more comfortable and understand what’s going on. Dr. Hachee is super awesome, quick and painless procedures.

Mike Wakefield

2023-11-15

Excellent care, VERY patient with me…. Thank you

IRENE CABRAL

2023-11-06

Walking into Dr. Hachee’s dental office was very welcoming, his staff were all very kind and knowledgeable. I felt I was in excellent and professional dental care with Dr. Hachee.

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