Tooth decay
Preventing tooth decay
Although tooth decay is acommon problem, it's often entirely preventable. The best way to avoid tooth decay is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. For example, you should:
- visit your dentist regularly your dentist will decide how often they need to see you based on the condition of your mouth, teeth and gums
- cut down on sugary and starchy food and drinks , particularly between meals or within an hour of going to bed some medications can also contain sugar, so it's best to look for sugar-free alternatives where possible
- look after your teeth and gums brushing your teeth properly with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day, using floss and an interdental brush at least once a day
- avoid smoking or drinking alcohol excessively tobacco can interfere with saliva production, which helps to keep your teeth clean,and alcohol can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel
- see your dentist or GPif you have a persistently dry mouth this may be caused by certain medicines, treatment or medical conditions
Read:
how to keep your teeth clean
lifestyle tips for healthy teeth
how does sugar in our diet affect our health?
reading food labels
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about tooth decay (dental caries), when acids in your mouth dissolve the outer layers of your teeth.
Symptoms of tooth decay
Tooth decay may not cause any pain. However, if you have dental caries you might have: toothache either continuous pain keeping you awake or occasional sharp pain without an obvious cause tooth sens
Seeing a dentist
Visit your dentist regularly, so early tooth decay can be treated as soon as possible and the prevention of decay can begin.Tooth decay is much easier and cheaperto treat in its early stages.Dentists
Cost of NHS treatment
NHS charges are set by the government and are standard for all NHS patients. Charges are assessed each year and usually change every April. Some people don't have to pay for dental treatment, includin
Preventing tooth decay
Although tooth decay is acommon problem, it's often entirely preventable. The best way to avoid tooth decay is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. For example, you should: visit your
Protecting your child's teeth
Establishing good eating habits by limiting sugary snacks and drinkscan help your child avoid tooth decay. Regular visits to the dentist at an early age should also be encouraged. It's important to te
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