A simple routine of brushing and flossing, good eating habits and regular dental check-ups can help prevent most dental problems. When home care is combined with innovative dental techniques and the preventive care of your Washington State Dental Association dentist, your teeth can last a lifetime.

The following tips for good oral care are brought to you by your WSDA member dentist. Count On Us For A Lifetime Of Healthy Smiles.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Plaque is a thin, colorless, sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth. When you eat foods containing sugars and starches, the bacteria in plaque produce acids which attack tooth enamel. The sticky plaque keeps these acids in contact with teeth, breaking down the enamel and causing cavities.
 

Preventing Cavities

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is easy if you follow these tips: Brush twice daily with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. (ADA - American Dental Association.) Fluoride is one of the most effective elements for preventing tooth decay. Children need to use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Brushing removes plaque and food particles from the inner, outer and biting surfaces of your teeth.
 

Floss daily

Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline, areas that a toothbrush cannot reach.
 

Eat nutritious meals

Eat nutritious meals including a variety of foods from the five major food groups (i.e., fruits, meat, vegetables, milk, fish and grain products) and limit snacking. Getting plenty of calcium helps strong bones and healthy teeth.
 

Protect your teeth

Consult your dentist about which dental products are right for you and your family. Ask your dentist about having sealants (a plastic, protective coating) applied to your children's teeth to reduce the risk of decay.
 

Visit your dentist regularly

Checking for dental decay is only part of a complete oral exam. Your dentist also checks for gum disease and examines the health of your mouth and surrounding tissue. Many diseases and medical conditions have signs that can appear in the mouth.
 

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Infants can develop cavities through a condition commonly known as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. This condition is caused by repeated exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugar. It develops when a baby frequently receives a bottle of milk, formula, fruit juice or sweetened liquids to serve as a pacifier, at bedtime or for naps. Baby Bottle Tooth Decay can be prevented by wiping the child's teeth and gums with a damp cloth or gauze pad after each feeding, brushing your child's teeth as soon as the first tooth appears, and never allowing your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing sweetened liquids.
 

Older Adults

Contrary to popular belief, cavities are a common problem among older adults. Receding gums combined with an increased incidence of gum disease can expose the roots of the teeth to plaque. The majority of people over age 50 have some tooth-root decay. Ill-fitting dentures or bridges, poor diets, poor oral hygiene, other medical diseases, and even some medications can increase the severity of gum disease. Be sure to tell your dentist about any illness you have or any medications you are taking, including those you purchase over the counter.
 

Special Care During Orthodontic Treatment

Keeping your teeth and gums clean while you are wearing braces may take a little longer but it is well worth the effort. Poor brushing may result in permanent stains on your teeth. Food particles left in braces or between your teeth are likely to produce odors and may create decay under the brackets damaging your teeth and gums while you are having orthodontic treatment. Ask your dentist or orthodontist about the proper method for brushing and flossing.

It is never too early to start caring for your teeth. Depend on your dental team for regular check-ups, cleanings and treatments for problems; however, daily dental care is in your hands.

Count On Us For A Lifetime Of Healthy Smiles.