Fighting Tooth Decay
The good news about tooth decay is that it is completely preventable. You can protect yourself everyday – in the foods that you choose, and the way you choose to care for your teeth – from tooth decay. Tooth decay does not sneak up unannounced. It is invited each day we choose not to brush and each time we ignore the floss. You can make sure tooth decay never visits you by observing good oral health care habits. When you think you want to skip the care, remember the age old saying, “ignore your teeth and they’ll go away.” Perhaps it sounds corny, but the fact is, it’s true. What you do today can make the difference between natural teeth and dentures or dental implants tomorrow. Tooth decay and cavities result when bacteria is unchecked by brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist. Each of us has a bag of tools to keep the problem of tooth decay away. The arsenal includes: • The toothbrush – use it after every meal or at the very least twice each day. Brush for a minimum of two minutes. Do not use undue pressure as it may brush your gums. • Floss – Manufacturers have made it easier to floss with a variety of types disposable flossing tools. Flossing cleans between your teeth where your brush cannot reach. There is some disagreement among dentists about the value of waxed floss; however, if the wax is what encourages you to floss, go for it. • Electric toothbrushes and water-piks – the most important predictor of the quality of the brushing and cleaning experience occurs with the user and not necessarily the tool. Having said that, there are probably some advantages to electric tools, especially for lazy brushers or those that have a difficult time gauging a full two minutes without a timer (many electric brushes now include such timers). • Mouth rinses and washes – There are some such products on the markets that do a good job of killing germs and can even offer some restorative properties. Make sure that you gargle as directed; usually about thirty seconds to achieve the full benefit. • Gum – Gums do have some value in the fight against tooth decay when chewed immediately after eating. Chewing gum can be a short-term alternative to brushing, but brushing is best. The benefit is generally derived from the saliva generated in chewing. You can also try rinsing as a last resort if you don’t have access to a toothbrush. Make sure to select a product that is sugar-free. • Visit your dentist twice each year. Children should begin seeing the family dentist at around three. Tooth decay is a concern for babies and young children as well. Parents should take care to make sure that babies are not put to sleep with bottles in their mouths. The pooling milk is fertile ground for the growth of bacteria, and ultimately tooth decay. Before teeth come in parents can begin the lifelong habit of good oral hygiene by cleaning gums gently with gauze and