Eating and Biting: 5 Things to Protect Teeth

The enamel of the tooth is the first layer that serves as a shield against decay. It is normal for deterioration to occur following a regular lifestyle, but there are steps you can take to keep the teeth healthy and adequately protected against decay. The following are a few things you must do to protect the teeth.

Your food choices matter

To keep your teeth strong and healthy, you need to reduce the consumption of sugary and acidic foods. The bacteria in the mouth thrive with sugar and combine with that to produce acids that can dissolve the enamel and make it weaker. Sticky candies and soft drinks are both terrible for the teeth.

Soft drinks with artificial sweeteners may be a better choice, but the acid in them can degrade the enamel. If you must drink something, opt for plain water or rinse your mouth to reduce the sugar concentration in the mouth.

Preferably, choose foods containing calcium to strengthen the teeth against decay and keep your bones strong. Cheese, milk and other dairy products are excellent choices — choose fat-free or low-fat options to reduce calories.

Fluoride helps

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fluoride is a natural cavity fighter because it helps fortify the enamel and can effectively curb the initial stages of tooth decay. Fluoride also makes your teeth less vulnerable to acids produced by the bacteria in the mouth.

Dental experts suggest using fluoride toothpaste from the commencement of teething and throughout life. Using fluoride dental washes is also beneficial for preventing cavities.

Protect against dry mouth

Saliva is essential for cleaning the mouth of food debris and bacteria that can cause cavities. It also neutralizes the effects of acid. Water is necessary to keep your mouth thoroughly moist and clean.

You need to rehydrate during and after working out by drinking water. You can also buy sugarless gums or hard candies to chew or suck on to keep the flow of saliva constant in your mouth.

Certain medications and medical conditions can cause dry mouth. Contact your doctor for guidelines.

Avoid Teeth Grinding (bruxism)

This activity typically happens while sleeping. A sufferer will grind or clench the upper and lower teeth against each other. With time, teeth grinding degrades the enamel and weakens the tooth.

If you grind your teeth, you may need to talk to your dentist. You will probably be advised to wear a mouth guard to shield your teeth.

Regular checkups are important

To keep your teeth healthy and strong, it is vital to visit the dentist every six months for a routine checkup and deep cleaning. The dentist will be able to diagnose issues in the teeth before they cause significant damage.

The dentist will also verify that your tooth has enough fluoride to strengthen and protect the enamel. If your home water source does not contain fluoride, then ask for fluoride treatment. This might also include fluoride dental washes or supplements.

Final note

Taking adequate of your teeth through excellent oral hygiene is essential for maintaining proper teeth health. Be proactive and see your dentist regularly.

Find more ways to protect your teeth at https://smilesdental.com or call Smiles Dental Care at (650) 563-1180 for an appointment in our Mountain View office.