4 Steps For Avoiding Cavities

When a cavity forms, people experience discomfort and require treatment. However, with a few simple changes our Omaha, NE, patients could help their smiles stay free of tooth decay. We’re talking about what steps one can take to improve oral health and avoid those painful cavities!

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Four Steps

  1. Don’t Ignore Sensitivity: When you notice your teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, or when a toothache develops that doesn’t fade, let us know right away. Persistent discomfort in the teeth often indicates the presence of a cavity. Treating a cavity quickly helps prevent the onset of dental infection, so let us know right away. Don’t endanger the healthy and stability of your smile by ignoring serious warning signs, contact your Omaha general dentist.
  2. Brush and Floss: Routine daily care helps prevent serious plaque buildup. Plaque occurs as bacteria break down food particles trapped on and between the teeth. By cleaning your smile daily, you remove these particles. You should brush your teeth when you wake up and again before going to bed. Each session should last about two minutes. Be sure you use a toothpaste with fluoride! Flossing is even more vital, so you need to floss between your teeth each night before bed, or preferably, after each meal.
  3. Less Sugar: Did you know bacteria love to break down sugar and starch particles? To reduce the severity of oral acidity and plaque buildup, try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks. Instead, try drinking more water and substitute your sugary snacks with fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, or low-fat yogurt. Chewing sugar-free gum also curbs your urge to snack without exposing your teeth to sugar.
  4. Have Your Teeth Cleaned: While brushing and flossing are key to preventing buildup from growing in severity, only a routine dental cleaning completely removes plaque. Every six months, you should see us to have your teeth cleaned. We will remove all plaque and tartar using an ultrasonic scaler or possibly a manual tool. In a few minutes, we significantly reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you have any questions about our preventive tips, or if you’re ready to schedule an exam and cleaning, then contact our team today.

Pacific Hills Dental Wants You to be Cavity-Free

At Pacific Hills Dental, we’re ready to discuss preventive care and help you stay tooth decay free in 2019. Talk to our team about proper homecare or our general treatment options. To make an appointment for yourself or for a family member, call our Omaha, NE, dental office today at (402)330-2243. We proudly treat individuals in Omaha, NE, and all of the surrounding areas, including Papillion, Elkhorn, La Vista, and Millard.