Preventing Cavities | Snohomish, Wa Dentist

Dreaded by patients young and old, one of the most common words associated with a dental visits is: cavities. Cavities are holes in the tooth surfaced caused by decay. When detected early, the treatment is typically simple – the decay is removed with a dental drill, and the hole is filled with a substance such as composite resin, that hardens to a natural looking color.

Treating tooth decay is generally a simple procedure, but it’s better to prevent tooth decay from causing cavities in the first place. There are a number of simple things you can do at home to help prevent cavities:

1) Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after each meal to help remove food and beverages from your teeth. If you can’t brush after a meal, at least try to rinse your mouth with water. Also, clean between your teeth with floss. 2) Rinse your mouth. Plain tap water typically has fluoride added for dental health. If you are at a high risk of decay, your dentist may recommend you rinse your mouth with a more concentrated fluoride solution in the dental office. 3) Visit your dentist. Regular professional cleanings and exams will help prevent decay, and if decay does form, it can be handled quickly and easily before it becomes a larger problem. 4) Eat tooth friendly foods. Avoid foods that get stuck in the grooves of your teeth, such as chips and candy, and brush soon after eating them. Fresh fruits and vegetables can help dental health by encouraging saliva, and unsweetened tea can help wash away food particles in your mouth. 5) Avoid frequent snacking. When you have food in your mouth, the acidic conditions damage tooth enamel, so snacking (and drinking) throughout the day means your teeth are under attack.

Practicing these easy steps to help minimize tooth decay and keep your teeth cavity free.

Call Dr. Ted Haines DDS for an appointment today. Keep those teeth healthy! Call 360-568-8577 or visit the website at tedhainesdds.com.

Dr. Haines of Snohomish, WA also proudly accepts patients from Monroe, Lake Stevens, Everett, Mill Creek, Woodinville, and surrounding areas.