How to prevent the need for a filling

​Ahh.. if only there was some magic potion that could prevent us all from getting holes in our teeth! That would just be marvellous! Unfortunately, there simply isn’t, however there are plenty of ways that you can reduce your risk of dental cavities or ‘holes’ in the teeth. Basically, a dental cavity is where plaque bacteria sits on the tooth for long enough to become acidic and start to eat away at the enamel.
 
Who is at a high risk of developing tooth decay?
 

• People with a diet high in sugar and carbonated drinks.
• People who have poor oral hygiene levels, or a poor technique when it comes to brushing and flossing.
• People who suffer from Xerostomia (dry mouth).
• People who have lots of teeth with exposed roots.

 
Here are some measures to help to prevent tooth decay:
 

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Try to limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes only rather than multiple sweet snacks throughout the day. Rinse your mouth out with water after you have consumed anything containing sugar.
• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time using a soft bristled manual or electric toothbrush with fluoride tooth paste.
• Clean in between your teeth at least once per day with floss or interproximal brushes.

 
What if I am a ‘high risk’ for developing tooth decay?
 

• If you are at a higher risk for developing tooth decay then additional preventive measures can be taken:
  • Using a high fluoride tooth paste (such as Colgate Neutrafluor®) instead of regular toothpaste. These higher fluoride toothpastes are available at most pharmacies, you may need to ask for them as they may be kept behind the counter.
  • Using a high fluoride mouthwash (such as Colgate Neutraflour® daily rinse). Ensure you purchase the alcohol-free version if you suffer from dry mouth as alcohol can dry your mouth out even more. Keep in mind that these higher fluoride toothpastes and rinses are not suitable for children.
  • Really try to limit your sugar intake, this includes fruit juices (orange, apple).
  • Tooth Mousse is a really good protective agent containing calcium phosphate that you can rub on any exposed tooth roots or areas that prone to tooth decay. Speak to your dentist about the use of Tooth Mousse, we stock it in our clinic and can advise you on how to use it and whether it would be suitable for you.
  • If you suffer from dry mouth, sip on tap water frequently throughout the day and consider using a saliva substitute such as the Oral-7 products for dry mouth. Saliva substitutes not only moisturise your mouth but the Oral-7 range contain enzymes, buffering agents and anti-bacterial agents that you may have lost with the lack of saliva.

 
If you have any questions or concerns in regards to your mouth or oral health, feel free to give us a call on 08 9321 6928, we are always happy to help!