Seeing us for a routine exam and cleaning isn’t possible right now, as we’re only seeing people for dental emergencies to help slow the spread of Coronavirus in our Astoria, NY, community. Which means taking steps from home to reduce the risk of cavities is more important than ever. In today’s blog, we’re looking at five ways you can lower your risk of developing a cavity.
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Brush with a Fluoride Toothpaste:
When you brush your teeth, be sure you pick out a toothpaste that contains fluoride and the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance on the packaging. The fluoride content helps strengthen the outer tooth enamel, protecting your smile from cavities. When you brush, do so when waking up and again before going to bed for about two minutes. Make sure you reach every available surface of your teeth.
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Floss Every Night:
When we brush our teeth, we help remove stray food particles that would otherwise be broken down by bacteria and contribute to a higher risk of cavities in the process. However, a toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach the bits of food trapped in between the teeth. To do this, you need to floss up and down each side of every tooth, dipping below the gum line when you do. You should floss every single night before going to bed.
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Cut Back on Sugary Foods and Drinks:
When we consume foods and drinks high in sugar, or snacks with a high amount of starch, this leaves behind particles that cling to the teeth or become trapped in between them. Once again, this contributes to a higher risk of tooth decay. Instead, try to enjoy more fresh fruits and veggies, low-fat yogurt, cheeses, whole grain crackers and breads, nuts, and sugar-free gums. Enjoy more water too, instead of sugary sodas or energy drinks.
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Beware Seemingly Healthy Snacks:
Often, there are items we assume are good for us, but could still put our smile at risk. For example, many fruit juices have a high sugar content. Sports drinks contain lots of acids, which could weaken tooth enamel. Dried fruit clings to the teeth and doesn’t contain the water content fresh fruit does, which help rinse away the sugars.
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Talk to Us About Dental Emergencies:
If you encounter persistent toothaches or sensitivity, this could mean a cavity or even an infection, so please contact our team right away. The same goes for damaged teeth!
Do You Have Questions About Improving Oral Health?
We would like to help you and your family lower your risks of tooth decay and infection. To learn more about keeping smiles healthy from home, then schedule a consultation, call Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
