Did you know that tooth decay is referred to as the second most prevalent human disease, only beat out by the common cold? Failing to swiftly and properly treat tooth decay may result in pain, illness and even the loss of teeth. Despite the severity of tooth decay, there isn’t one sole preventative measure that you can take to protect your smile, rather, preventing tooth decay consists of multiple measures on a consistent basis. Here are some tips on preventing tooth decay from our dentist in Bloomingdale.
Symptoms
Let’s first delve into the symptoms of tooth decay so that you know what to be aware of. The specific signs and symptoms of decay are dependent on the extent and the location of the issue. Common signs include:
- Unexpected toothache with no real cause
- Pain when biting down
- Tooth sensitivity
- Holes or pits in your teeth
- Pain when eating something hot or cold
Steps to Add to Your Routine
- One of the easiest ways to stay on top of potential decay is by visiting the dentist at least once every six months. Visit our dentist in Bloomingdale on a regular basis: Our professionals are able to swiftly recognize decay and recommend treatment options to combat it.
- Use fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day to reduce your risk of developing a cavity.
- Eat tooth-healthy foods like fruits and vegetables to increase the flow of saliva which helps rinse away built-up food particles.
- Consider dental sealants: These are basic plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surface of the back of your teeth. This seals off grooves in the teeth that have the potential to hold bacteria and plaque. Sealants can last for several years but should be checked often to ensure they are still effective.
- Floss: We can’t emphasize enough the effectiveness of flossing. Take a few minutes each night after brushing your teeth to floss; this will help get rid of bacteria that your toothbrush alone cannot reach.
We are open and actively treating our patients in the most effective and safe way possible. Schedule your reservation with us, we look forward to seeing you soon!