Dental Care in Brampton: Tooth Decay Prevention Tips

Besides being the reason for a beautiful smile, our teeth chew and grind food, help us pronounce words, and give our faces shape. That’s why taking proper care of them is important. However, many of us face a common dental issue: tooth decay. This is a serious problem which, left untreated, can lead to severe toothache, sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food, tooth stains, cavities or even infection. Keep reading to learn more about tooth decay and how the dental care provided by our Brampton clinic can save your teeth from decaying by making them healthier and stronger.

Meaning and Causes of Tooth Decay (And How Our Brampton Dental Office Can Help)

Tooth decay is when the bacteria in our mouths produce acids that attack and erode the enamel on our teeth’s outer layer. That said, we have both helpful and harmful bacteria in our mouths. When combined with food, the bad ones have a sticky film on teeth called plaque. They produce acids that erode the minerals in tooth enamel. Over time, plaque starts building up on teeth, which can harden into tartar and lead to tooth damage and gum disease. Fortunately, the fluoride present in toothpaste and water, together with the natural flow of saliva, helps repair the enamel by regenerating lost minerals. However, this is applicable only if you take proper care of your teeth and avoid consuming too many sugary or starchy foods and drinks. One of the early signs of tooth decay is the formation of white spots on teeth where minerals are lost. This can be stopped with proper dental care in your Brampton home and keeping a check on your intake of sugary foods. If the process continues, tooth decay can cause cavities and permanent damage, requiring filings.

Dental Care in Brampton: How It Can Prevent Tooth Decay

Here are some preventive dental care measures that dentists in Brampton recommend.

1. Use Toothpaste with Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that can stop the progress of tooth decay or even reverse it. Brampton dentists like ours recommend using fluoride-based products like toothpaste and mouth rinses is because fluoride helps in the remineralization of tooth enamel and strengthens it. You can also drink tap water as it contains this mineral. So, when the bacteria release acids after feeding on the starchy and sugary remains in our mouths after we eat, the strengthened enamel helps fight against them. Acid damage can be stopped and reversed through remineralization, which repairs small holes before they lead to tooth decay.

2. Reduce Your Sugar and Starch Intake

When you consume foods and drinks containing excessive amounts of sugars or starches, the bacteria in your mouth feed on these remains. As they release acids that attack the enamel, it causes teeth to erode which results in plaque formation. To avoid this, it is best to cut down on sugar in your diet and reduce starchy food. Instead, eat nutritious, balanced meals. Also, make sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating.

3. Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

One of the basic and most effective ways to apply dental care daily is to follow a good oral hygiene routine in your Brampton home. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for about two minutes and flossing them one by one once a day. This will ensure that your teeth remain strong and healthy while keeping away the harmful bacteria that form plaque.

4. Quit Bad Habits

It’s a good idea to get rid of habits that can negatively affect your dental health. For example, biting your nails can cause damage or chipping of your teeth. Smoking and tobacco use can also lead to many problems such as tooth loss, receding gums, discolouration, loss of taste, and even oral cancer. It is best to avoid tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, to maintain good dental health.

5. Visit Our Dental Office in Brampton

While taking care of your teeth on your own is necessary, it is not always enough. Make sure to visit our dental office in Brampton, Ontario, for regular checkups and cleanings every six months. This will allow us to identify any problems and take the actions required to keep you smiling. Prioritizing your dental care and visiting our Brampton dental office is essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing tooth decay. By incorporating the preventive measures outlined here, you can effectively combat tooth decay and keep your teeth strong and healthy. Remember, dental care is not just about addressing problems; it’s also about taking proactive steps to protect your teeth and enjoy a beautiful, confident smile for years to come.