Cavities are tiny holes in your teeth that can develop over time if not treated. They occur when bacteria in your mouth decompose sugar and create acids that erode your teeth. The holes can cause pain, infection, or even tooth loss. But the good news is that cavities can be avoided with some daily routines and annual checkups. A clinic that offers family dentistry in Oakville can advise you and your family members on how to keep your teeth safe daily.

Let’s examine some easy and effective methods to prevent cavities.

Brush Your Teeth Properly

Brush your teeth in the morning and before bed to aid in removing food and plaque. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that can accumulate on your teeth. If not properly removed, it will lead to cavities. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for two minutes, brushing all surfaces of your teeth.

If you’re not sure about the proper way to brush, your family dental clinic in Oakville can provide advice that applies to both children and adults.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Even if you brush properly, there are spaces between your teeth that the brush cannot access. That is where flossing comes in. Floss daily to clear out food particles and plaque between your teeth. This little action can go a long way in maintaining a clean mouth.

Good family dental care always involves flossing as part of your daily routine, particularly for children learning to take care of their teeth.

Restrict Sugary and Sticky Foods

Sugar is a major culprit when it comes to cavities. When you consume sugary foods or beverages, the bacteria in your mouth break down the sugar and produce acid. This acid destroys the enamel—the surface layer of your teeth.

Sticky snacks such as sweets or dried fruits are even more problematic since they linger on your teeth. A dentist near you can advise you to pick snacks that contain less sugar and are easier to wash away, such as fruits or cheese.

Drink Water Throughout the Day

Water rinses the food and sugar residue following meals. It also keeps the mouth moist, which helps regulate bacteria. Drinking water with fluoride will also help make your teeth stronger and resist decay.

Both adults and children will benefit from the practice of drinking water over sugary beverages. This is usually promoted at any clinic offering family dentistry in Oakville, as this promotes healthier teeth early on.

Avoid Snacking Too Repeatedly

Snacking between meals provides bacteria with more opportunities to produce acid. The more repeatedly you eat, particularly sweet snacks, the more your teeth are subjected to acid. Attempt to adhere to regular meal times and allow your mouth time to recover between eating.

If you must snack, have foods such as nuts, yogurt, or vegetables that cannot easily damage your teeth. Your family dental clinic in Oakville can suggest additional snack options that are also healthy and friendly to teeth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Having your dentist check you every six months catches little issues before they become large issues. A dentist can clean your teeth deeper than you are at home. They can also add fluoride treatments or sealants to help protect your teeth.

Most parents trust family dental care to ensure that their children have healthy and strong teeth as they grow up. Visits to family dental care also help educate children to take care of their teeth. 

Protect Your Teeth with Sealants

Dental sealants are thin layers applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They prevent food and bacteria from entering the grooves where cavities tend to develop. Sealants are primarily applied to children, but some adults may also find them helpful.

Inquire with your dentist near you whether sealants are a good choice, particularly for younger kids who are still learning to brush and floss effectively.

Replace Your Toothbrush on Time

An old or worn toothbrush will not clean your teeth. It needs to be replaced every three to four months, or earlier if the bristles are worn. A good toothbrush is a key instrument in preventing cavities from occurring.

Oakville clinics specializing in family dentistry in Oakville generally remind parents to inspect their children’s toothbrushes routinely and replace them when necessary.

Teach Children Good Habits Early

Kids learn from the adults. If you look after your teeth, children will be more likely to do the same. Brush and floss together, discuss healthy eating and go to the dentist together.

If you require assistance integrating dental care into your child’s daily routine, a family dental clinic in Oakville can give you useful resources and guidance.

Searching for Family Cavity Care?

Cavities don’t discriminate, but they can be prevented with easy measures. Brushing, flossing, healthy eating and regular trips to the dentist can give your smile a fighting chance. At Oakwest Dental, we provide full care for every single member of your family.

Whether you’re seeking advice or a checkup, a professional dentist in your area is ready to help keep your teeth healthy. Come see our dentist in Oakville today to guard your teeth and stop cavities from occurring.