Win The Battle Against Oral Bacteria With These Decay Prevention Tips
Posted on: 26 April 2017
There's a battle going on in your mouth! The key players are oral bacteria and your tooth enamel. If oral bacteria are allowed to take the lead, you may end up with cavities and tooth decay. It's up to you to help your teeth fend off these bacteria and the decay they cause. Here are some ways to help your teeth win the battle.
Say "no" to sugary beverages.
It's no secret that soda is bad for your teeth, but this is just one of the few sugary beverages you're best off avoiding. Juice, though it contains some vitamins, is just as bad for your teeth as soda and it's incredibly high in sugar. Coffee is bad for your teeth, too, if you add sugar and even milk to it. (Milk contains sugar). Sugar just feeds the oral bacteria, making them stronger and allowing them to secrete more of their secret weapon (acids) to damage your teeth.
Always floss your teeth.
Many people underestimate the importance of flossing. They brush their teeth, assuming that this does a good enough job of removing bacteria. However, there are many bacteria that hide out between your teeth. Once you're done brushing, they can creep out of hiding and replicate, covering your teeth with their decay-inducing acids once again. Flossing will ensure the bacteria between your teeth are removed. Ideally, you should rinse your mouth either with water or mouthwash after flossing. This removes any plaque and bacteria that were freed from between the teeth with your flossing efforts rather than letting them linger around your teeth.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash.
There are many types of mouthwash on the market. Some are made with fluoride to strengthen enamel, and others are intended just to keep your breath smelling fresh. These rinses have their place, but when your goal is to help your teeth win the battle against bacteria, what you need is an antiseptic mouthwash! Antiseptic mouthwashes contain ingredients that specifically kill oral bacteria. Make sure you use the wash as recommended on the label for best results. Typically, you'll need to swish the rinse around for at least 30 seconds in order for it to have maximum effects.
Bacteria are tough fighters, but with your help, your teeth can win the battle against them. For more tips to help protect against tooth decay and cavities, speak with a dentist or dental hygienist, such as Hughes Thomas R, in your area.
Share