If you have a sweet tooth, then eating candy is one of your favorite things to do, especially on holidays! While snacking on the best kinds of treats can be enjoyable, you could also be putting your dental health at risk for cavities. Fortunately, there are methods you can practice for reducing your chances of needing emergency treatment later on. Read on to learn four steps to help you prevent cavities when you have a sweet tooth.
Step #1: Keep Your Tools Close
Most people brush and floss when they wake and before they sleep. Sometimes your daily schedule might be busier than you expect, and with a sweet tooth, you may require more regular cleaning when you’re out and about. To make things convenient, you can always carry a portable or disposable toothbrush so you can brush away the sugary snacks from your teeth wherever you go!
Step #2: Frequently Change Your Toothbrush
Over time, your brush will become less effective at removing plaque because of constant usage. It’s recommended that people change their toothbrushes every three to four months. Most toothbrushes are efficient at cleaning, but you might even try a triple-action bristled brush with a diamond-shaped head to help clean more difficult places to reach.
Step #3: Use Mouthwash
In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, swishing mouthwash around your mouth is important for washing away sugary debris from your teeth. If you’re looking for the best kinds of mouthwashes, try those containing fluoride for fighting tooth decay.
Step #4: Eat Less Sugary Snacks
One of the best methods for preventing cavities is to moderate how often you eat sugary snacks. As long as you don’t eat it all the time and you clean your teeth daily, you should be safe. You might also consider healthier snack alternatives, like fruits, yogurt, nuts, and cheese to promote saliva flow, which helps wash away bacteria.
Eating your favorite candy isn’t the end of the world, but practicing healthier habits and options can help keep your pearly whites safe from cavities! Talk to your dentist to learn more about how you can keep a clean smile.
About the Author
Dr. Shauna Soltani earned her dental doctorate at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. She’s also a member of several organizations including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. With her lifelong passion for making people smile, she provides various dental treatments to help maintain healthy teeth. If you want to learn more about the best ways to prevent cavities, visit her website or call (720) 608-7770.
