The health of your teeth has a direct correlation to your overall health. This is why it is important to maintain good oral health habits. These include brushing and flossing twice daily, as well as eating nutritional snacks and avoiding sugary drinks and candy. A good oral health routine should also include regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and X-rays to ensure that any problems are spotted early on, reducing the need for expensive treatment in the future.
The most common dental problem is cavities. These small holes in the teeth can cause a lot of pain and discomfort if left untreated. The best way to prevent cavities is to avoid sugary foods and drinks, especially at mealtimes. If you do eat sugary foods or drinks, try to brush or rinse your mouth immediately afterwards to wash away any remaining acid and remove bacteria that can cause decay. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can also help reduce the amount of acid that is produced in the mouth.
A diet high in sugar, salt, fat and processed food is also bad for your teeth. It can lead to a build-up of plaque, which can eventually cause tooth decay and gum disease. Try to eat a healthy balanced diet, including low-acidity fruits, vegetables, lean meats and dairy products.
Starchy foods such as crackers, bread, chips and pasta can linger in your mouth and break down into sugars on which bacteria produce acids that can damage enamel and lead to tooth decay. Try to limit these types of foods to mealtimes, or chewing on a stick of sugarless gum after meals can help cancel out the acid.
Tooth sensitivity is another common dental problem that can be caused by the food and drink you eat and your lifestyle habits. Tooth sensitivity can cause discomfort and may lead to further complications if not treated quickly. Try to eat less acidic foods, chew on sugarless gum, use a fluoride toothpaste and drink plenty of water to combat tooth sensitivity.
Dry mouth is a major factor in the development of tooth decay because it interferes with saliva’s ability to neutralize acid and carry minerals to the teeth. Using a mouthwash specifically designed to treat dry mouth, or staying well hydrated is the best way to prevent tooth decay and promote remineralization.
Tooth decay can affect anyone, but it is particularly harmful for children because their primary teeth are more prone to cavities than adults’ permanent teeth. If you have young children, try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, or have them rinse their mouth with water after eating. Visiting the dentist for a check-up and cleaning twice a year is the best way to keep your teeth healthy. During these visits, the dentist can X-ray your teeth to spot cavities and other potential problems, as well as clean and polish them to remove any stains. In addition, a visit to a Northbrook dentist is the best way to learn about good oral hygiene and to get helpful tips for keeping your teeth healthy at home.
