The Best Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
July 20, 2017
One of the most important factors in maintaining good oral hygiene is to prevent tooth decay. If you let tooth decay go on for too long, then you could end up losing a tooth, which has many negative consequences that go beyond the aesthetics of your smile. When you lose a tooth, it becomes harder to chew and eat. This does more than just make it hard to eat your favorite foods; studies have found that reduction in chewing is associated with reduced cognitive function. That is why at Clear Springs Family Dentistry, Dr. David McIntyre educates our patients on the ways in which to prevent tooth decay in Kyle, TX.
It Starts With Good Oral Hygiene
The best place to start the prevention of tooth decay is with good oral hygiene. There are a few key components:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use fluoride-containing toothpaste and mouthwash
It takes more than just keeping your teeth clean; however. You also want to visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and examination. Your dentist in Kyle, TX, will be able to see the earliest signs of tooth decay, which are cavities. These can be filled to stop any further decay.
Feeding Your Teeth
Another way to prevent tooth decay is to eat the right foods. You want to consume an overall healthy diet that is high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. For bone health, you want to ensure you get adequate calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and vitamin K. Additionally, you want to avoid foods known to contribute to tooth decay, such as sticky foods, candy, sugar, and soda.
Talk With a Dentist for More Tips
When you schedule an appointment with Dr. McIntyre, he will go over ways in which you can further protect your teeth from tooth decay in Kyle, TX. With the work of a trusted dentist in Kyle, TX, and your own actions, you can keep your teeth strong and healthy.