World Oral Health Day 2024: Dental Tips to Help Reduce the Risk of Tooth Decay
World Oral Health Day 2024: Dental Tips to Help Reduce the Risk of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay World Oral Health Day, also known as dental caries or cavities, is an area of damage to the surface of the tooth caused by bacterial activity.
It occurs when plaque (a mucous film made up of bacteria, sugar and food debris) builds up on the teeth and produces acid that
gradually dissolves the enamel (the outer layer of the tooth).
Over time, this erosion creates small holes or cavities in the enamel.
If left untreated, decay can penetrate deeper into the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
Certain dental care activities do reduce the risk of tooth decay by preventing plaque buildup and strengthening enamel.
Read on as we share these dental tips for preventing tooth decay.
World Oral Health Day-Here are some dental tips to help prevent tooth decay:
1.Brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing your teeth twice a day helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes at a time, brushing all surfaces of your teeth.
2.Floss daily
Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, where toothbrush bristles may not be able to reach effectively.
Floss gently to avoid damaging your gums.
3.Use fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attack by plaque bacteria.
Use a fluoride toothpaste that is approved by the Dental Association and government health organisations.
4.Limit sugary foods and drinks
Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids that erode tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.
Limit the intake of sugary snacks, candies and drinks, especially between meals.
5.Drink water
Drinking water helps to rinse away food debris and neutralise acids in the mouth. Choose fluoridated water whenever possible as it further strengthens tooth enamel.
6.Chew sugar-free gum
Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which helps flush out food debris and neutralise acids.
Look for gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that also inhibits bacterial growth.
7.Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to detect early signs of tooth decay and other oral health problems.
Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone may not remove.
8.Consider dental sealants
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent bacteria and food from lodging in pits and fissures.
Ask your dentist if sealants are right for you or your child.
9.Avoid smoking and tobacco products
Smoking and use of tobacco products increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer.
Quitting smoking can improve overall oral health and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
10.Maintain a balanced diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums.
Calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D are especially important for strong tooth enamel.
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