We all know that brushing twice a day and flossing once a day helps fight against cavities, but there are other tips that you can do to help protect your teeth and gums even more. Brushing and flossing effectively removes plaque, bacteria which makes your gums stay healthy. Dentistry has come a long way and now we know more ways to help prevent cavities. Check out some tips below on how to help prevent cavities.
1. Fluoride. As a kid growing up, I remember my elementary school teacher giving us fluoride tablets every day. I never knew what they were for, but I liked eating them. Fluoride is great in strengthening the enamel and root surfaces of the teeth to make them stronger. Although, most toothpaste now a days has fluoride in it and there is also, depending on where you live fluoride in the water. Our hygienists recommend a fluoride varnish treatment at least twice a year to help protect against cavities. A fluoride varnish is a higher concentration of fluoride that helps prevent cavities by making your teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars in your mouth. If you’re someone who has a higher decay rate and gets cavities more often then we will recommend a prescription fluoride toothpaste that can be used daily when brushing.
2. Baking soda. Brushing with baking soda helps neutralize the acid and bacteria in your mouth. Baking soda is one of the least abrasive things you can brush with. It’s also a natural tooth whitener and will keep your breath much fresher! It’s simple, all you need to do is just wet your toothbrush, place some toothpaste on your toothbrush, put some baking soda on it and finally brush for two minutes.
3. Xylitol. Xylitol is a fancy word for sugar alcohol that is used as a sweetener which can be found in many forms, such as gum or candy. Xylitol can help stimulate saliva and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth that is causes you to get cavities.
4. Brushing and flossing. Yes, everyone knows this, but it’s the most important. This helps to maintain healthy teeth and gums for life. By brushing twice, a day and flossing once a day will help remove any plaque buildup or bacteria that can cause cavities. If you need some trick and tips about flossing check out our hygienist, Rachel explain the importance of flossing in this video here.
If you haven’t been to the dentist in quite some time it’s time to give Philly Dentistry a call for all your dental needs. We are a general and cosmetic dentistry so if you just want your normal cleaning and check-ups or if you want a brand new smile with porcelain veneers, we have your back for everything! 215-568-6222 or send us an email at info@phillydentistry.com or follow us on social media @phillydentistry.