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Tooth decay leads to tooth structure destruction and cavities in the teeth.  Cavities cause the teeth to be sensitive to cold, hot and sweet things, which may need fillings.  Very large cavities may compromise the nerve of a tooth and cause toothache, which may need root canal treatment or extraction of the tooth.

The best way to manage tooth decay is to prevent it from occurring.  Let’s discuss 4 strategies to prevent tooth decay:

1. Use Fluoride

Fluoride is scientifically proven to prevent tooth decay.  It makes enamel harder and more resistant to breaking down.  It can repair early tooth structure damage and is antibacterial. For the most benefit, brush twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and get professional fluoride after teeth cleaning with the dentist every 6 months.

2. Get Fissure Sealants

The fissures or grooves in the chewing surfaces of teeth can trap food and bacteria.  If they are quite deep, the bristles of your toothbrush won’t be able to clean them fully, leading to tooth decay.  Fissure sealants cover these fissures with a protective filling material to protect them and make cleaning them easier.

3. Improve Saliva

Saliva is our body’s natural protective response against problems in the mouth, including tooth decay.  Saliva is antibacterial, buffers damaging acid and repairs the mineral in tooth structure.  Without good saliva, the risk of tooth decay increases.  Drink plenty of water so your mouth is not dry and limit dehydrating drinks such as tea and coffee.  You can stimulate saliva by chewing sugar-free gum.

4. Improve Your Diet

We all have heard how sugar and acid rot our teeth.  By limiting our intake of sugar and acid, we not only decrease our risk of tooth decay but many general health issues as well.  Remember to have a look at the labels on food and drinks at the nutritional information before buying and consuming.  Pick healthier choices!