Cavities occur when there is breakdown of the teeth due to bacterial attack. The bacteria produce an acid when it eats into the tooth surface which mostly has food debris or sugar. The hard tissues of the teeth (enamel, dentin and cementum) get eroded resulting in cavities.
Dr Nitin Oswal, a well-known dentist in MG Road lists the following as preventive care tips for teeth in order to prevent and reduce cavities:
1. Good Oral Hygiene: This is the most important and basic step to a cavity free mouth. Brushing twice a day preferably in the morning before breakfast and at night before going to sleep helps prevent cavities. Rinsing the mouth after every meal and flossing ensures there is no food debris in the mouth or in between the teeth for the bacteria to feed on.
2. Sugar: Also known as white poison, sugar attracts bacteria and together they produce “plaque” which then leads to cavities. Sugar present in chocolates, candies and chips sticks to the teeth. If not removed by brushing, they stay on and increase the chances of cavities and tooth decay.
3. Fluoride based toothpaste: Fluoride is a component present in toothpastes to prevent cavities. Fluoride is found in plants, animals and some natural water sources. It is beneficial in the formation ofdental enamel.
4. Diet: Balanced diet with a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables gives the body the required vitamins and minerals. Fibre rich foods like nuts, apple, cheese, fresh vegetables help in preventing plaque and cavity formation. Avoid processed foods, refined sugar products and foods that have a tendency to stick on to the teeth. Avoid drinking too much of soft drinks as they are acidic in nature and destroy the tooth enamel.
5. Frequent Munching: It is better to avoid frequent munching of snacks that get deposited in the tooth pits and grooves. Maintain a routine for meals and snacks and brush/rinse after every meal in order to avoid food deposition in the mouth which may result in cavity formation.
6. Water: Water helps in the increased secretion of saliva. Saliva is a natural protector of the gums and the teeth. Water also helps in flushing any residue in the mouth, thus, preventing the growth of bacteria.
7. Professional Help: It is important to visit the dentist periodically to get professional dental cleaning. Oral examination by a dentist will help in investigating the problem(if at all) at an early stage and solving it.
8. Drinking Tea: Black and green teas are regarded as beneficial as they help prevent plaque formation and reduce the chances of cavity.
It is possible that in spite of the above methods of prevention, one may have cavities. This might be true for patients with diabetes who are vulnerable to cavities. Similarly a genetic tendency for weaker tooth may also cause cavities. However, if we begin to take care of our teeth from an early stage and teach oral hygiene habits to our children, tooth decay can be prevented to a large extent.
Dr. Nitin Oswal
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