If you started to worry about your risk for tooth decay, what would you change? Would you spend more time brushing your teeth? Would you change your flossing habits? Because there are several different factors that can affect your cavity risk, certain changes can benefit some patients more than others. For instance, individuals who do not attend regular dental exams can certainly benefit by scheduling ongoing checkups. In other cases, one key change can lie with your dietary habits. If you make adjustments to the products you consume, you can reduce your exposure to harmful items. That means reducing sugar, but it can also mean lowering your intake of acidic items, like citrus fruits, which can weaken your enamel.
1. Cutting Back On Sugary Foods And Beverages
Cutting back on sugar can certainly help you avoid problems that might require restorative dental work. When certain oral bacteria feed on sugars, they release acids, which will wear down your enamel. By depriving those bacteria of sugar, you can keep your teeth in better condition.
2. Limiting Your Consumption Of Sticky Foods
Sticky foods can be trouble because they can leave debris behind on teeth, particularly in hard to reach spaces. A glob of food trapped between the cusps of a molar can give oral bacteria a continued food source, which can make it more likely you will suffer a cavity.
3. Drink More Water!
Drinking more water can mean drinking fewer soft drinks, which can be a big benefit. However, water is important in other ways. Staying hydrated will help you produce saliva, which will help to keep your mouth clean. Water sources that have fluoride are also great for your smile because fluoride encourages your enamel to recover from decay that can turn into a cavity.
My Dentist In Londonderry, NH Can Help You Protect Your Smile
At My Dentist in Londonderry, NH, you can count on expert care to help you protect your smile from tooth decay. Ongoing checkups can keep you safe, and they can provide you with an expert cleaning. Of course, we are also here to help if you find yourself suffering a cavity, and needing treatment. To learn more, schedule a consultation with one of our experts by calling the My Dentist office in Londonderry, NH, today at (603) 965-3407.
