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Tooth Decay (Caries)

Tooth Decay is declining, fortunately, due to improved dental hygiene, diet and education, but it can still be a real problem for individual children, as well as some teens and adults. Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth, and this bacteria film is the main culprit for causing caries. Whenever you eat or drink something which has a high sugar or starch content, the bacteria that’s within the plaque forms acids which soon get to work attacking the tooth enamel. It’s actually extremely efficient – the sticky properties of the plaque makes sure that the acid stays in place until it’s work is done, and after constant attacks the enamel on the teeth can break down and a cavity will be formed.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay (Caries)

There are some proven ways to stop the attacks and help to protect your teeth against tooth decay.

• brush your teeth, at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
• replace your toothbrush regularly, at least every three or four months
• use an inter dental cleaner or floss to really clean between the teeth, at least once a day
• make sure that you get a good healthy, balanced diet, and cut down on snacks in between meals
• limit (or preferably stop) eating and drinking sugary snacks – they’re dynamite – and if you do succumb, clean and floss as soon as possible
• chew a stick of sugar-free gum for around 20 minutes after meals ( if you’re not able to brush your teeth) this can help to prevent tooth decay – look for the American Dental Association acceptance seal to be sure that you’ve chosen the best stuff
• regular dental checks ups for a professional dental cleaning job
• your dentist can also advise you about dental sealants, which is simply a protective plastic coating which can be used to help prevent the start of decay – usually on the chewing surface on your back teeth which is where tooth decay often gets started

Children and Tooth Decay

It’s really important that you train your children from a very early age to look after their teeth. As soon as their first little tooth appears, get your baby used to having a brush with a small amount of paste on in its mouth, they usually find that it tickles and baby toothpaste is often manufactured to taste really nice!  Even if they just chew on it for a minute or two, they’ll soon get the idea. Don’t forget to include dental hygiene into part of their daily hygiene routine.