Cavities are no fun to have. They’re quite scary in fact. When your tooth’s protective layer (enamel) has been completely worn down, plaque, tartar, and other bacteria can begin to hollow it out, leaving its structure compromised. If this does happen, your dentist can provide you with a filling, crown, or implant depending on how much damage the cavity has done. There are also steps you can take to lower your risk of cavities and avoid any major dental work.
Even The Odds
There are many ways you can leave yourself vulnerable to developing a cavity. Here are just a few things you can do to level the playing field:
- Brush and floss twice a day. Plaque can calcify into tartar in around 24 hours. Once tartar has developed, it can’t be removed without your dentist’s professional tools. To avoid this, maintain a regimented schedule of brushing and flossing at least two times a day. Once in the morning and once before you go to bed. Brush thoroughly for at least two minutes to remove food particles and sugars.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months. If your toothbrush has broken or frayed bristles, it is completely ineffective and needs to be replaced.
- Have a calcium rich diet. Your diet doesn’t just have to be dairy products. You can snack on fruits and vegetables to get calcium as well. Also, be sure to drink fluoridated water, which will remineralize and strengthen your enamel.
- Avoid sugar. Try and cut sugar from your diet wherever you can. If you need to snack on something sweet, try sugarless gum. It can satiate your appetite for sweets and help your teeth.
We’re Here To Help
Our dentist can take care of your oral health issues. Schedule an appointment today. Contact us at our local Austin, TX office at 512-250-9444.
