Good oral hygiene can help you avoid tooth decay.

Below are some tips to help prevent tooth decay.

Brush with the type of toothpaste your dentist

recommends after eating or drinking. Brush your

teeth at least twice a day and ideally after every meal.

Floss your teeth every day. Ask your dentist for help

and instructions on how to oss your teeth effectively.

The purpose of ossing is to remove the bacteria from

between your teeth (where a toothbrush can’t reach)

every 24 hours, so that they can’t stick (plaque) to the

teeth and cause decay.

Rinse your mouth. If your dentist feels you have a

high risk of developing tooth decay, he or she may

recommend that you use a mouth rinse with uoride.

Visit your dentist regularly. Get professional teeth

cleanings and regular oral exams, which can help

prevent problems or spot them early. Your

dentist

can recommend a schedule that’s best for you.

Drink more water. Drink water after meals and

snacks, in addition to brushing twice a day and

ossing every day.

Consider dental sealants. Dental sealants are a thin,

plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of back

teeth. Sealants ll the deep grooves that tend to collect

food and the bacteria that cause tooth decay. The sealant

protects tooth enamel from plaque and acid. The Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention recommends sealants

for all school-age children Research shows that sealants not

only protect teeth, but can also stop decay in the beginning

stages, preventing future cavities.

Avoid sugary snacks and drinks. Whenever you eat

sugary foods or drink beverages other than water, you help

the bacteria in your mouth create acids that can destroy

your tooth enamel. If you snack or drink throughout the day,

your teeth are under constant attack.

Eat nutritious and balanced meals. Avoid foods

that get stuck in grooves and pits of your teeth for long

periods, such as candy or cookies, or brush and oss soon

after eating them. However, foods such as fresh fruits

and vegetables increase saliva ow, which often helps

balance out the acidity of the bacteria. In addition, sugar-

free gum and unsweetened drinks, including coffee and tea

can help wash away food particles.

fact:

You can prevent

cavities and

tooth decay

www.libertydentalplan.com

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Preventing Tooth

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