Control Tooth Decay And Stop It From Spreading

Tooth decay can be an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience. Most experts agree that plaque buildup leads to tooth decay and gum disease. There are lots of evidence that poor diet can also have an impact on oral health. Also, poor dental care is a deciding factor. Tooth decay can occur at any age and often begins in childhood. For a list of what family dental services we perform, click here.

Poor oral health can contribute to other health problems; this includes mental health, heart disease, and many other physical problems.

However, there are many things you can do to prevent tooth decay:

Use a soft bristle brush that you replace at least every three months. There are many different toothbrush types available and some will work better for you than others. If you aren’t sure, talk to your dental professionals for more information.

Your dentist can also give you some refreshers about proper brushing and dental care. You want to hold your brush at a 45-degree angle while brushing your teeth.

Make sure that you take sufficient time to brush your teeth well. You’ll usually want to spend about two minutes brushing. This is about the length of a song on the radio – so try playing some music when you brush your teeth. Don’t rush through your brushing routine, take your time.

You should floss your teeth at least once every day. Make sure to get into all the little nooks and crannies that you toothbrush can’t reach. A lot of people skip flossing all-together, so don’t be afraid to ask your dentist how to floss properly.

Using a good quality mouthwash is another step you can take to prevent tooth decay. Rinse at least twice daily, with an alcohol-free mouthwash, enriched with fluoride. Fluoride strengthens teeth and allows them to resist decay.

Your eating habits also have an impact on the health of your teeth. Avoid foods and beverages that are acidic or can stain your teeth. For example, sugar is not good for your overall dental health. Eating sugary foods or consuming sweet drinks on a regular basis, greatly increases the risk of tooth decay. Make a habit of rinsing your mouth out including between your teeth with water after sugary or acidic drinks.

You might be surprised to discover how much of your diet contains sugar. Check the content label for the different foods you eat. Many boxed and processed foods are full of sugar, which means you may be consuming a lot more sugar than you think.

Dark beverages, red wine, and coffee can leave stains on the teeth. So you want to avoid these drinks as much as possible. Especially, if you want to maintain a healthy looking white smile.

Cigarette smoking can also contribute to oral health problems, gum disease, and tooth decay. So try to quit smoking if you can.

Also, don’t underestimate the necessity for regularly scheduled professional dental cleanings. While it me seem like an inconvenient experience, the health benefits are many. Regular cleanings can help you avoid issues like gum disease and tooth decay before they get out of hand.

Taking the time to make and keep your dental appointments can save you a lot pain and money in the long run. Make seeing your dentist every six months. So it’s a great place to get your regular cleanings and exams done. Plaque is hiding place for acid based bacteria in the mouth and needs daily cleaning along with a professional cleaning. Having a clean mouth leads to fresher smelling breath and overall better health.

Don’t take Tooth Decay lightly. Nearly 80% of the population will suffer from some form of tooth decay during their lifetimes. Allowing decay to worsen can lead to even worse oral conditions and can leave you in a lot of pain. Luckily this condition can be easily remedied and even prevented. You might be surprised to learn there are some foods that promote healthy teeth.

Foods For Healthy Teeth

Foods like cranberries, oranges, and grapes are rich in poly-phenols, a group of organic substances that have strong antioxidant qualities. They also reduce the risk of tooth decay, and a host of other diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables are a great addition to almost anyone’s diets.

Fruits and veggies are also rich in dietary fiber, minerals, and vitamins that help your mouth fight out gum disease and infection. Fruits and vegetables also are a natural source of iron.

You don’t need to be a complete vegetarian. Fish and meats are loaded with heme-irons, which are fantastic for your blood and bones. Also, meat is rich in zinc and minerals, which your body needs to maintain good health.

You may also want to avoid processed foods if you want to promote good oral health. Natural and whole foods are much better for you. They also aren’t filled with tooth decaying acids and sugars, that many processed foods contain.

You may be surprised to learn that cheese is very good for your teeth. Cheese is not only tasty, but it neutralizes the acids that other foods leave in your mouth. Incorporating good natural cheese (not processed cheese) into your diet, is a good way to help keep your smile looking great.

Also don’t forget about whole grain foods, not only do they give you lots energy, they can help promote a healthy smile! Whole grains don’t wear on the teeth and are a good way to naturally cleanse the mouth during a meal.

If its time to see your dentist in Whittier for dental check and professional cleaning or you have a tooth or gum issue then give Whittier Square Dentistry a call:). Dr Hwang is excepting new patients.