How to Prevent Cavities?

Cavities, or tooth decay, are formed when bacteria eat away a tooth, starting from the enamel (outermost layer) and towards the dentin (inner layer). A cavity is irreversible and would require treatment to prevent it from worsening. 

Here are some ways to prevent cavities from forming and worsening:

•    Avoid overconsumption of acidic drinks such as coffee, wine, alcohol and soft drinks as these would erode the enamel protecting our teeth. 

•     Reduce intake of sugary foods to reduce the amount and time sugar remains in our mouth. This would directly reduce the amount of dental plaque formed. 

•     Refrain from snacking frequently as each time we snack, plaque in our mouth uses sugar found in food to make acid that attacks our enamel.

•    Drink plenty of plain water to keep your mouth clean. If you must consume acidic drinks, sugary foods or snacks, remember to drink water or rinse well to dilute the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth.

•    Maintain good oral home care by brushing two times a day, for two minutes each with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. This will help to remove food particles, bacteria and dental plaque.

•    Get regular check-ups with your dental specialist / dentist to ensure cavities are found and addressed before the symptoms (e.g. pain or sensitivity) appear. 

It is possible to be cavity-free. Prevention and early detection are crucial in avoiding costly and major dental treatments. And remember, it is never too young to start.

Dr Tan Kian Meng is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He is also a Clinical Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and Diplomate with the American Board of Prosthodontics. He was formerly a Consultant at Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Fellow of Maxillofacial Prosthetics and Oncologic Dentistry Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr Tan has special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry.

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