Heel Spur Treatment Tips

4 Simple Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay

According to a 2014 report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 3 out of every 10 Australian adults had untreated tooth decay between 2004 and 2006. Tooth decay is a serious dental issue, but it can be easily prevented. The following tips to prevent tooth decay are based on clinical findings and research from dentists. For both adults and children, this advice can help you avoid future pain caused by tooth problems. 

  1. Eat Less Frequently - Each time you eat food or drink a beverage, however small the quantity, the pH balance of your mouth is changed. This leads to the rate of tooth decay speeding up, as your mouth is unable to immediately restore the optimum pH balance. Eating just three meals a day ensures that the mouth remains at the optimum pH for most of the day, preventing decay.
  2. Fluoride Toothpaste - Most modern toothpastes include fluoride, which is a totally safe chemical that strengthens the teeth through remineralisation. Using fluoride toothpaste at least in the mornings and evenings, or after every meal to ensure maximum effectiveness, will ensure that the enamel in your mouth is healthy and strong. Fluoride helps your teeth protect themselves, and if you live in a town with fluoridated water, your teeth are even better protected from decay.
  3. Avoid Sugary Drinks - Sugary drinks are one of the worst foods for your teeth. Instead of simply changing the pH balance of the mouth, like most foods, sugary fizzy drinks can actually break down the enamel of your teeth. Essentially, they undo all the good work done by fluoridated toothpaste and water, leaving your teeth unprotected and vulnerable. Even fruit juice is a culprit, as the high levels of sugar have negative effects.
  4. Floss Your Teeth - Every dentist will tell you this, and the reason for the repeated advice is that it's true. By flossing your teeth every day, you prevent bacteria and plaque from building up in-between your teeth. Removing these harmful substances ensures that they do not spread throughout the mouth and create widespread tooth decay.
  5. Visit the Dentist's - Regular dentist trips will help you to identify the warning signs of tooth decay and prevent it from developing further. Your dentist can also give you specialist advice which is tailored to your personal situation. Visiting the dentist's office ensures that you know what is going on in your mouth, and can prevent decay with procedures such as teeth sealant if necessary.

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