How to avoid needing a filling

Cavities and the need for a filling

Most people get cavities at some point in their life, but it is possible to avoid them and reduce the chance of needing a filling. 

Cavities are caused when a lack of regular teeth cleaning leads to bacteria building up on your teeth. This bacteria then produces an acid which erodes the enamel on your teeth, forming cavities. Tooth cavities need to be filled in to avoid the risk of infection and further decay. Here are some of the best ways to avoid having to get a filling. 

Use fluoride toothpaste

Fluoride helps reduce tooth decay so make sure to find toothpaste that contains it. Most major brands should have it. Brush using toothpaste twice a day to avoid the buildup of bacteria on your teeth. 

Avoid sugary foods

The type of food we eat obviously has a large impact on our oral health. Eating an excess of sugary foods can lead to cavities. Try to only have sugary food at meal times. Having sugary snacks in the day will be more likely to lead to tooth decay as the sugar will be left on the teeth for longer. Be sure to read the labels if you are unsure how sugary some foods are. 

Rinse your mouth after meals

If you are unable to brush your teeth after a meal, it is worth rinsing out your mouth with water. Rinsing your mouth will wash away sugar that might be leftover on your teeth. It is also worth noting that tap water contains fluoride. This will reduce the risk of bacteria building up. 

Get regular dental checkups

Regular dental checkups are crucial for your oral health. With regards to cavities, a checkup means that they can be detected early on and your dentist will advise you how to proceed. With regular dental check ups at Andrew House, you can avoid serious issues like tooth decay. 

What to do if you need a filling

If you think you might have a cavity then it is important that you see your dentist. Signs you might have a cavity include tooth pain, dark spots on your teeth and bad breath. 

At Andrew house, your dentist will discuss the best materials to use depending on the cosmetic effect you desire and what they feel is going to provide the best result going forward. Do not hesitate to contact us if you want more information on tooth fillings.