The last thing you want is a cavity, that’s for sure.
You know the drill: brush and floss regularly to prevent cavities. But what exactly are cavities, and how does brushing and flossing help to prevent them?
As a kid, you probably didn’t wonder about this stuff, you just did what you were told. As you get older though, so do your teeth, which means that understanding your mouth and how to prevent things from going wrong with it is important.
Below are some helpful tips you should keep in mind every time you brush. That way you’ll be keeping your mouth and teeth healthy and clean.
What Are Cavities?
When a tooth decays or breaks down, a cavity is likely to appear shortly after. A cavity is a hole that can grow bigger and deeper in a tooth, which is why attending to the problem sooner rather than later is strongly recommended.
Are You at Risk of Getting Cavities?
The first major step in preventing cavities is to consult with your dentist in order to find out whether or not you have a predisposition to getting them in the first place. After performing a thorough dental exam, your dentist will be able to tell you what the situation is. If you do have a predisposition to getting cavities, your dentist will likely offer specific instructions regarding prevention.
Properly Brushing with the Right Toothbrush Helps
When it comes to fighting cavities, your toothbrush is the first line of defense. That being the case, it’s important to use a toothbrush that really does a good job a cleaning your teeth. For a comparison of manual and electric toothbrushes, look here.
Beware of Sugary and Acidic Drinks
If you’re constantly drowning your teeth in acidic coffee or tea, and if you compound the damage by adding sugar or milk, you can significantly increase your risk for new cavities. Enjoy your coffee, but you should rinse your mouth out with water after drinking it.