It was earlier last year when we heard the dreaded words from the dentist “Your son requires 3 fillings”. What?! I thought - we’re educated parents, we moderate their sugar intake, we make sure they brush morning and night. How could this possibly be?! This is one of the reasons we got into what we do now. Sugar in lollies is one thing, but sadly there’s sugar hidden everywhere - you’d be surprised. Anyway this blog is not about sugar, it’s about understanding what causes tooth decay and how you can minimise its menacing intrusion into yours or your families mouths.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Take a deep breath, you may not like the next sentence - I certainly don’t. Tooth decay is caused by a combination of poor oral hygiene and a high-sugar diet. When bacteria in your mouth comes into contact with sugar, it produces acid. This acid then begins to eat away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities. In addition, if you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque will build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria, and if it’s not removed, it will harden into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and can also lead to tooth decay. The process of tooth decay can start as soon as 30 minutes after eating or drinking sugary or starchy foods. The more often you consume these foods and drinks, the greater your risk for tooth decay.
Enter the dentist, and the need for regular sessions to remove the tartar. When was the last time you or your family saw your dentist?
How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay?
You can reduce your risk of tooth decay by practicing good oral hygiene habits and making smart dietary choices. Here are some tips for preventing tooth decay:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush for two minutes each time.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
- Limit sugary and starchy foods and drinks. If you do consume these items, do so in moderation and brush your teeth afterwards.
- Chew sugarless gum after meals to stimulate saliva flow and neutralize acids in your mouth. P.S. Andy’s currently looking to add these to our line up as gum is literally her vice.
Tooth decay is a common problem that can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day and cut down on sugary snacks and drinks. If you do eat sweets, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards. With these simple tips, you can help keep your smile healthy for years to come!