3 Surprising Ways to Prevent Cavities
 Everyone knows that brushing and flossing are the basics to properly caring for your teeth. If all you do is brush and floss twice a day, chances are that you are going to experience cavities quite frequently. There are multiple ways to prevent cavities, but some of the most surprising ways are also very effective. By continually looking for ways to prevent cavities, you not only save yourself the pain of expensive dental procedures, but you also save possibly thousands of dollars. One of the great things about taking care of your teeth is that it is simple. Eating Cheese Cheese contains a protein (casein) in it that has protective properties and actively promotes healthier teeth and prevents cavities. After consuming cheese, research has shown that calcium levels in the mouth increase. Teeth are made of calcium so having higher levels allows the teeth to re-mineralize, which protects against cavities. Chewing Gum While chewing gum with sugar is not recommended by dentists, sugar-free gum is highly recommended in avoiding cavities. Sugar-free gum contains a natural sugar substitute called xylitol. Xylitol is an effective cavity fighter because it prevents tooth decay by not allowing the bacteria in your mouth to turn it into acid. Sugar isn’t what destroys your teeth. What destroys teeth and causes cavities is the acid that is produced when sugar and the bacteria in your mouth meet. In order for xylitol to be effective, most dentists recommend about 5 grams per day. Candy Most people assume that candy is the first thing you should avoid when trying to prevent cavities but that is not always the case. Most dentists agree that sugar-free candy is perfectly fine and will not cause cavities. Just like sugar-free gum, if the candy contains xylitol, you are actually preventing cavities while eating candy. Many candies, such as lollipops and other hard candies, are frequently sweetened with xylitol. While making use of these three methods can help in cavity prevention, the only way to know for certain that you have healthy teeth is to visit your dentist for a checkup. At least two visits to the dentist each year, along with actively looking to prevent cavities is the only way to ensure your teeth are healthy. |