Tooth decay, which is also known as dental caries or cavities, is a bacterial infection of the teeth that causes the breakdown of their hard outer tissues—including the enamel, dentin, and cementum.
Tooth decay can lead to pain, fractures, and in extreme cases, tooth death, but fortunately, this condition is quite preventable. With a daily regimen of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash, tooth decay shouldn’t pose much of a problem.
Regular Brushing
Using a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean teeth twice a day is the cornerstone for good oral health, and it’s the easiest way you can help prevent tooth decay. When choosing a toothbrush, there are some considerations you need to take into account to ensure you find a good one. First, look for one that is soft-bristled—most dentists agree that these types of toothbrushes are the most effective at getting rid of plaque and food particles. Also, pick a toothbrush that has a small enough head that it can get into the hard-to-reach corners of your back teeth.
For best results, choose a toothpaste that that contains fluoride, as it is one of the best substances for fighting tooth decay. Luckily, most brands on the market contain fluoride. Additionally, any brand of toothpaste billed as “anticavity” will be effective as well.
Daily Flossing
While most people manage to remember brushing every day, flossing is often something that gets neglected. However, it’s just as important for fighting tooth decay. While a toothbrush is relatively good at removing food particles from between your teeth, there are some spaces that even it can’t reach—and this is where floss becomes essential. There are several sizes of floss available, but choosing the right one for you ultimately depends on the size of the spaces between your teeth. Consider using floss that is treated with fluoride for an extra tooth-decay-fighting edge.
Anticavity Mouthwash
Mouthwash, while not as essential as brushing and flossing, can be another good line of defense against tooth decay. However, not all mouthwashes will be equally effective at getting the job done—look for one that is specifically marketed as anticavity or anti-tooth decay. Additionally, choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to further protect your teeth.
