One exciting thing about visiting your dentist is hearing that you’ve made it another six months without developing any cavities. Of course, if you’re faithfully seeing your dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up, you’re already taking an important step toward cavity prevention . You probably also know that brushing and flossing regularly, and avoiding sugary snacks are important for your dental health. But there are other, less obvious steps you can take to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Sip Through a Straw
Avoiding sugary beverages is an ideal way to protect your pearly whites, but this isn’t practical for everyone. If you must have a soda or sports drink on occasion, you can keep cavities away by using a straw. Drinking through a straw minimizes the amount of contact between your teeth and the beverage. This can also reduce your risk of developing tooth discoloration between teeth whitening appointments.
Treat Dry Mouth
The saliva in your mouth is crucial for your dental health. The constant production of saliva during your waking hours gently washes your teeth and sweeps away bacteria that can cause tooth decay . Some people have a condition called xerostomia, also known as dry mouth. This is often caused by the use of certain medications. If you’re concerned about whether you might have dry mouth, your doctor might recommend using products such as special mouth rinses that can help restore a healthy balance of saliva.
Manage Heartburn
Heartburn isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also result in considerable enamel loss. Chronic heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by the periodic backflow of stomach acid into the mouth. This harsh acid can wear away your tooth enamel, leaving your pearly whites vulnerable to tooth decay. Occasional heartburn isn’t usually a cause for concern, but you might want to talk to your doctor if you experience it on a regular basis.
At Park 56 Dental , we’re dedicated to providing a positive, comfortable dental experience for our patients. Our dentist office in NYC provides a comprehensive range of general dentistry and smile restoration services, including dental fillings and dental implants. Schedule an appointment with a dentist today by calling (646) 783-3529.