Tooth Decay is the cause of weak teeth and cavities. How does tooth decay occur? Bacteria feed on leftover food on the teeth and turn them in to acids. These acids combine with saliva to make plaque, which then lead to cavities. It can be a real pain, but it’s easy to avoid providing you are willing to take the right steps.
Preventing tooth decay is simple.
Brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride, and if you can, brush after meals and especially before going to bed.
Always floss, whether it’s with string, or flossing tools. It’s important to get anything out of the space between your teeth. Maintain a healthy diet and avoid carbohydrates as much as possible. Carbs are the favourite food of the bacteria which live in your mouth. Sugary foods are a close second. Any sticky food should be brushed away soon after consumption, but if you can, chew some gum with xylitol, as studies have shown it can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and slow their growth.
You can prevent tooth decay by following these easy steps and booking regular checkups at your UBC dentist, Wesbrook Village Dental Centre.