Tooth decay, as you can probably guess from its name, is the destruction of both the tooth enamel and the dentin layer of the tooth. It occurs when foods loaded with carbohydrates are left on the teeth. The bacteria in your mouth feed on this food, producing acids, which combine with food debris and saliva to form dental plaque. This plaque then begins to dissolve tooth enamel, creating cavities.
Luckily, tooth decay is very preventable!
Tips for Preventing Tooth Decay
- Brushing Twice a Day: Most dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristle toothbrush. Ideally, one would brush after every meal.
- Flossing Daily: Flossing once a day will help remove food debris that brushing misses.
- Eating Healthy: Eating healthy and avoiding carbohydrate-filled snacks, like candy, pretzels, and chips, is your best defense against tooth decay.
- Fluoride: Fluoride will help strengthen your teeth. One of the best ways to add extra fluoride to your oral health regimen is by using a mouthwash containing fluoride.
- Semi-Annual Dental Visits: It is recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year (every 6 months) for regular cleanings and checkups. At Affinity Dental Associates, our dental hygienists provide “dental cleanings”(prophylaxis), “deep scaling”(scaling and root planing), “dental Xrays”, patient education, oral cancer screenings, dental product recommendations, fluoride and local antibiotic therapies and personalized homecare instruction.
If you have any questions about Tooth Decay and Dental Hygiene, please contact Affinity Dental Associates by calling 410-719-7900 or visit MarylandsBestDentists.com today!
At Affinity Dental we strive to provide our patients with the personal, professional, quality dental care they need, while making it convenient, painless, and affordable. We offer morning, evening, and weekend hours to accomodate our patients and provide access to care to fit your busy schedule.
Our doctors and staff are dedicated to improving your dental health!