Dental Health Tips

Dental Health Tips > Prevention

1. Avoiding sticky foods in the diet will reduce the risk of decay. Foods such as fruit roll-ups, fruit leathers, raisins, peanut butter, and sugar coated cereals are examples of sticky food that stick to the teeth. Even if the snack has natural sugar, it is still sugar sticking to the teeth and may increase the risk of tooth decay.
2. Juice is very acidic and has natural or artificial sugars and sweeteners. High volume of frequency juice intake will cause continuous acid attacks on the teeth. These acid attacks will eat through the tooth enamel (the protective layer of the tooth), and may cause tooth decay. It is recommended to minimise juice intake, and keep with mealtime only.
3. Avoid snacking throughout the day. Constant snacking will increase the number of acid attacks on the teeth. Any time food or drink is consumed, an acid attack will occur. Try to rinse with water after food or juice is consumed.
4. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheese are suggested snacks.
5. It is recommended that tooth brushing should occur in the morning and before bed. Brushing the tongue is a must, as well, as bacteria may trap there. Using fluoridated toothpaste that has either the Canadian or American Dental Association stamp will help keep the teeth strong and healthy.
6. Flossing is just as important as brushing, as the toothbrush will not get into the area in-between the teeth. Flossing on a daily basis will not only reduce the rate of decay, but it will keep the gums healthy.
7. There is no fluoride in the water system in the lower mainland. Fluoride drops or tablets may be recommended for children by your dentist. It will help with the development of the adult teeth.
8. Dental x-rays should be taken on a yearly basis, unless otherwise advised by your dentist. This will enable the dentist to diagnose if there is decay in between the teeth. Children should have x-rays taken as soon as the back baby molars are touching together, if the co-operation allows.
9. With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation in a dental x-ray is extremely small.
10. A preventative measure used for decay-free back teeth is called a fissure/enamel sealant. A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that may be applied to the teeth with deep pits or grooves. It acts as a barrier to protect the tooth's chewing surface, which may reduce the risk of decay. Your dentist will decide if the teeth should be sealed or not.