Fluoride

Fluoride is a very important weapon in the fight against cavities. It is found in nearly all toothpastes, many mouthwashes, in varnishes and in drop/tablet form for children. Fluoridated water supplies are present in some areas, where it has been extremely beneficial in helping prevent dental caries.

Plaque

Controlling dental plaque in the mouth. By not allowing bacterial plaque to build up on the teeth’s surface, the production of acids that cause the de-mineralization of the enamel is inhibited. With dental plaque formation under control the risk of developing dental caries is significantly reduced.
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth (usually with floss) and use fluoride mouthwash. Combined, this oral hygiene routine will allow the benefits of fluoride and also reduce the amount of plaque build-up (plaque contains the bacteria that cause cavities – and gingivitis).

Diet

Limit both the frequency and amount of sugar/carbohydrates, to reduce the time that the teeth are under attack from the plaque acids. Avoiding snacks allows the teeth time to recover. Rinse out your mouth with water, milk or a mouthwash if you do ever eat between meals.

Regular check-ups

With regular check-ups, your dentist will be able to identify any early damage and advise you on preventative measures to help reverse this. If you do have any cavities; the sooner it is treated the better, in order to prevent the damage from spreading. Left too late, the disease will spread into the pulp – you will get toothache and will need extraction or root canal at this stage.

Regular dental care check-ups are the only way to that caries can be found before it does a lot of damage. Your dentist will also be able to give you specific, tailored advice on prevention, based on your own oral health.

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of these grooves.

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