Tooth Decay Prevention

Regular daily removal of plaque

Decay is caused by bacteria in the soft dental plaque. Removal of dental plaque around the teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste and removal of plaque between the teeth once a day with floss and/or interdental aids will ensure your teeth are clean and free from plaque. Your dentist can explain the techniques to use at home to remove plaque effectively. Fluoride toothpaste protects the teeth by strengthening damaged tooth structure to prevent it from further damage but also strengthens healthy tooth structure.

Dietary Advice

Diet plays a big role in dental health:

• High sugar drinks and food can lead to decay.
• High frequency of sugary foods and drinks lead to a higher rate of decay.
• It is important to reduce sugar frequency consumption to reduce the risk of decay.

Most common causes of decay requiring fillings are sugary drinks such as sugary soft drinks, favoured milks and fruit juices.

Early detection of decay with regular check-ups can prevent decay becoming bigger. Early decay can be picked up by a routine check up or x-rays and if small enough can be reversed by use of high fluoride toothpaste and regular brushing and flossing and reducing or elimination intake of sugary foods and drinks.

Acidic foods and drinks can dissolve away tooth structure and wear away the enamel which exposes the dentine layer underneath. When this inner layer is exposed it can result in sensitivity to cold. The best drink to drink to avoid erosion is water as it helps to neutralize any acid and provides a neutral pH.

Saliva

Saliva is a buffer protecting teeth against decay. Having reduced quantity and poor quality of saliva is another risk factor for decay. Many medications cause dry mouth. High fluoride toothpaste may be recommended by your dentist depending on your decay risk which will be assessed at your check up.

It is important to ensure you drink enough water to maintain good quality saliva – Health experts recommend 8 glasses or around 2 litres per day but if you exercise regularly or in hot weather you may require more.

Signs your saliva is reduced in quality or quantity include feeling a dry mouth, frothy/bubbly saliva, or thick saliva rather than watery saliva. If you are concerned about your saliva please contact us to make an appointment to discuss management options.