5 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay from a Family Dentist in Columbus

Any family dentist in Columbus deals with tooth decay on a regular basis. It is one of the most common dental issues in the U.S., and it is one of those things most people will deal with to some extent at some point in their lives.

Tooth decay is caused by the acids in a person's mouth. Some of these acids come from the beverages and foods the person consumes, while others are created by the bacteria that live inside the mouth. The organisms feed on leftover food particles in the mouth and excrete acids as a byproduct.

These acids eat away at enamel and eventually make their way into the inner layers of a tooth, forming small holes called cavities. These cavities continuously expand until they are treated or breach the pulp chamber of the tooth. Symptoms of tooth decay include:

• Cavities
• Toothaches
• Increased sensitivity
• Bad breath
• Discolored teeth

A family dentist in Columbus explains how to prevent tooth decay

While tooth decay is one of the main reason why people go to the dentist, it is also very preventable. Here are some tips from a family dentist in Columbus that help to keep tooth decay at bay:

1. Avoid late night munchies

Nothing leads to tooth decay faster than consuming sugary treats and snacks right before going to bed. The sugars these items contain are acidic, and they tend to stick to teeth surfaces. Saliva normally washes things that can damage teeth like sugars and bacteria away, but its production is significantly reduced while a person sleeps. That means the sugars in these snacks will get to attack a person's teeth all night long if consumed right before going to bed.

2. Brush at night

Brushing at night is crucial: even more important than in the morning. Sure, a person might have bad breath in the morning if they do not brush, but that does not damage teeth. The bad breath would typically go away as saliva washes away oral bacteria throughout the day.

However, when a person does not brush before going to bed, all the nasty stuff that has accumulated on their teeth get to damage them while they sleep. Remember, saliva production is reduced while a person sleeps.

3. Stay away from sweet drinks

Sweet drinks can give a person a much-needed energy boost, but the sugar contained in them can damage teeth long after the drink has been consumed. The worst thing a person can do is sip on sweet things all day. That is pretty much begging for tooth decay. It is better to substitute sugary drinks with water or, at the very least, drink water after enjoying something sweet.

4. Get regular cleanings

Tartar promotes tooth decay and brushing does not get rid of it. A dental cleaning needs to be performed by a dentist to get rid of it.

5. Use preventative treatments

Those who are more vulnerable to tooth decay can give themselves extra protection with preventative treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments.

Your family dentist in Columbus is here to help

At Ohio Cosmetic Dentists, we provide preventative treatments that help to keep tooth decay away. Stop by our clinic to learn more about these treatments.

Request an appointment here: https://www.ohiocosmeticdentists.com or call Ohio Cosmetic Dentists at (614) 503-5240 for an appointment in our Columbus office.

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