Tips To Prevent Cavities From a General Dentist

general dentist Long Beach, CA

General dentists can offer patients the advice and guidance they need to support a healthy mouth, including how to prevent cavities. Cavity prevention is essential in ensuring good oral health, which is why consulting with a general dentist on a regular basis is a good idea. 

About cavities

One of the most common reasons why patients visit a general dentist is to treat a cavity. Additionally, general dentists can help educate individuals on how to prevent cavities from developing. 

Cavities are tooth infections that eat away at the enamel. Long-term, cavities can result in tooth decay and even loss.  

Preventing the formation of cavities

Cavities do not support a patient's good oral health, making it essential for everyone to understand how to prevent them, to begin with. The information below comes right from a general dentist and is on the topic of how to prevent cavities from developing.

Learn how to properly brush and floss

Many dental patients will quickly brush and floss their teeth, which means they are probably not getting the benefit of proper brushing and flossing. Patients need to brush their teeth at least twice a day and for at least two minutes each time. Holding the soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45° angle helps to efficiently remove any food particles or plaque that can lead to cavities forming. Flossing should be done at least once a day. The floss should be carefully placed in between the teeth and then slowly pulled up each side of the tooth in order to remove any plaque or food particles.

Avoid consuming sugary foods and drinks

Bacteria loves sugar! This makes it so those who choose to consume foods or drinks that contain a lot of sugars are more likely to develop the tooth decay that leads to cavities. For those who find it difficult to remove sugar-bases foods and drinks from their diet, general dentists recommend consuming less of these sugary options is a good idea. Additionally, rinsing the mouth out immediately after consuming these high sugar foods and drinks can be helpful as it washes away any reminiscences of sugar. 

Get dental sealants

Some patients will benefit from having dental sealants placed on their teeth in order to prevent cavities from forming. Dental sealants are a thin protective covering that is applied to teeth with the purpose of protecting the teeth from any outside elements that can damage them. The process of having dental sealants placed on one's teeth does not take long to perform and can be accomplished in just one dental visit by a general dentist. Sealants last an average of two years, making them a common treatment option for the prevention of cavities.

Got cavities?

The sooner cavities are treated, the sooner patients can once again be in good oral health. In order to prevent future cavities, following the above tips is necessary. For patients who want or need more in-depth information on how to prevent cavities, making a list of questions to ask at the next dental appointment is a great idea.

Are you considering visiting a general dentist in the Long Beach area? Get more information at https://lbfamilydental.com/.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Three Reasons Not To Use Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…

Convenience And Comfort Are Benefits Of Invisalign Therapy

Invisalign® is one of the most popular ways to undergo orthodontic treatment. General dentists are recommending teeth straightening via Invisalign® because of the many benefits that come with it. Having an understanding of these benefits may be helpful to those looking at their options. Keep reading to find out more. Below is an explanation of how comfort…

3 Ways Emergency Dentists Provide Quick Relief

Wondering what an emergency dentist can do for you? Read on to learn more about this type of dental health professional. Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly, causing significant discomfort and anxiety. An emergency dentist can help in such cases. They provide immediate care and relief by addressing urgent dental problems that cannot wait for a…

Recent Posts

Three Reasons Not To Use Over The Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Three Reasons Not To Use Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…