Dental decay occurs when the bacteria in the plaque on your teeth, creates acids and breaks down the enamel, the hard outer shell of the tooth. Decay can be prevented in several ways. The American Dental Association recommends the following to prevent dental decay:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner.
- Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.
- Check with your dentist about the use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (where decay often starts) to protect them from decay.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination
