Have you ever wondered what effect sugar has on your oral health?
Well, even in small qualities, sugar can have a negative effect on your oral health. When sugar combines with the bacteria and plaque in the mouth, it creates an acid that weakens the tooth enamel. Over time these acids can break down the tooth and lead to a cavity if not properly treated. If a cavity does develop, your dentist may be able to repair it with a range of general dentistry services – dental filling, dental crown, and inlay/onlays.
At MAC Dental in Nixa, MO, general dentist Dr. Jacob McLauchlin offers comprehensive, personalized dental care for patients with damaged teeth. If you haven’t visited the dentist for a preventive care exam, schedule a visit to MAC Dental. During a preventive care exam, Dr. McLauchlin carefully examines the teeth for any complex dental problems including oral cancer, TMJ, and gum disease. The goal of preventive dentistry is to find any dysfunction in the smile and treat it before it develops into an advanced dental problem. During your visit, one of our skilled dental hygienists will perform professional teeth cleaning to remove any plaque buildup from the teeth. Preventive care is highly beneficial to patients of all ages.
Tooth Decay Prevention
Part of preventive dentistry should be performed at home. Taking preventive measures to avoid the development of complex dental problems can save you time and money in the future. Try incorporating these key tips into your everyday routine.
- Use fluoride. Fluoride can be found in certain kinds of toothpaste, mouthwashes, and even your drinking water. Studies have shown that fluoride can help strengthen the tooth enamel.
- Limit the number of sugary treats and beverages you consume. Even a tiny amount of sugar can damage the teeth if not properly removed.
- Follow a healthy oral hygiene routine. Brush, floss, and rinse your teeth at least twice a day to remove harmful bacteria and keep your teeth clean.
- Visit the dentist for regular dental checkups.
Fighting tooth decay doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Take the time to take care of your smile to avoid complex dental problems in the future. If you have any questions about preventing tooth decay, contact Dr. McLauchlin in Nixa, MO. Patients can contact MAC Dental or schedule an appointment online.