Tips to Slow Cavity Decay

We all want to avoid cavity decay. We know oral health is incredibly important. We’ve all heard why we need to brush, floss and take care of our teeth. Since we were young, we were taught how to prevent cavities from forming. But what happens if you get a cavity?

“Cavity decay can do a lot of damage to a person’s oral health,” says Dr. Maryam Adibfar, one of Toronto’s best dentists. “But there are ways to slow down the decay that occurs if you unfortunately get a cavity.”

What is Cavity Decay Anyways?
We all know that cavities are bad. But have you ever wondered exactly what they are? Cavities are actually small holes that eat away at the tooth’s enamel. This process can cause considerable pain, sensitivity, decay and even tooth loss.

Cavities are often caused by the build up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria and acids that are harmful to your teeth’s sensitive structure.

“While cavities are quite harmful to your oral health, there are ways you can slow down the decay,” explains Dr. Adibfar.

How to Slow Down Cavity Decay

Step 1 – Maintain great dental hygiene: It’s important to continue to brush, floss and rinse with mouthwash in a daily basis. By brushing and flossing at least twice a day and using mouthwash after meals, you can help slow tooth decay.

Step 2 – Select the right toothpaste: We recommend choosing a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is a very powerful compound that can actually reverse cavity progression in the early stages. It also helps protect your teeth from other harmful bacteria.

Step 3 – Limit the amount of sugary foods you eat: Consuming foods and beverages high in sugar can rapidly speed up tooth decay. Try to reduce the amount of pop, candy and sweets you consume on a daily basis. If you do decide to indulge, we recommend brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash soon after. This can help wash away the harmful sugars from your teeth’s surface.

Step 4 – Try some natural remedies: It’s been found that drinking green tea or chewing on liquorice root can help improve your oral health. Green tea is rich in fluorine, which helps clean the mouth of cavity causing bacteria. Liquorice root is Mother Nature’s antimicrobial, which reduces the impact of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Step 5 – Visit your dentist: If you have a cavity or are experiencing pain, sensitivity or discomfort, book an appointment with your trusted Toronto dentist. They’ll be able to identify the right courses of action that can help address the issue. Lean on them for trusted advice and direction. They’re your oral health partners and the earlier you see them, the better the chances are that something can be done if there is a serious issue.

The Bottom Line
Cavity decay can cause a lot of issues. Cavities can be painful, uncomfortable and lead to a variety of oral health issues. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your teeth on a daily basis. From brushing and flossing to regular dental checkups, we encourage you to take every opportunity to keep your teeth clean, healthy and strong. Lean on us to help. We’re always ready and willing to be there to lend a helping hand. Because we know  even the smallest bit of support can make a big difference.