4 Things You Can Do To Stop From Getting Cavities

Cavities are bad for your teeth and uncomfortable as well, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from cavities. As your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, we’ve got advice that can help protect you from cavities. We also provide dental care that can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Here’s what to know about how you can protect yourself from cavities.

1. Avoid Sugary Drinks and Foods

Consuming sugar can lead to tooth decay, especially if you don’t brush your teeth well when you’re done. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help with this. Avoid desserts whenever possible, or purchase sugar-free foods for your desserts instead. Look for sugar-free drink alternatives as well.

2. Brush and Floss Well

You probably already brush your teeth twice daily and floss once per day. But are you brushing your teeth well? Maintaining good brushing and flossing habits can help you prevent plaque and tartar from building up on your tooth enamel, which can help keep your teeth free from bacteria and ultimately, free from cavities. If you’re not sure whether you’re doing a good job brushing, ask your dentist to give you a tutorial the next time you go in for a dental exam and cleaning.

3. Get Dental Sealants

Dental sealants can protect your teeth from bacteria and dental decay. Talk to your dentist to find out whether dental sealants are a good option for you.

4. See the Dentist Regularly

You should be seeing the dentist for preventative dental treatment in Jacksonville, FL, or more often if directed by your dentist. When was the last time you saw the dentist? Call Mandarin Dentistry to make an appointment for your next dental cleaning.

 

How Can You Tell if You Grind Your Teeth? An FAQ About Bruxism

Do you suffer from headaches in the morning, or are your teeth damaged by cracks and chips? It’s possible that you’re affected by a condition called bruxism. Bruxism can impact your dental health, but you can prevent damage by taking proactive steps to protect teeth. Working with your dentist in Jacksonville, FL can help. Here’s what you need to know about bruxism.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition that causes the affected patient to grind their teeth at night. Usually, the person who is grinding their teeth at night doesn’t know that they’re doing it. Often, it is a spouse or a bedmate that tells them that they’re grinding their teeth.

How can you tell if you grind your teeth at night?

While you may not know that you’re grinding your teeth because you’re sleeping through it, there are some signs that you can watch for.

  • You get a headache in the morning when you first wake up.
  • Your teeth are worn down or the enamel is cracked and damaged.
  • One or more of your permanent teeth has become loose.
  • Your teeth are overly sensitive.
  • Your jaw aches.

Even if you haven’t noticed any of the symptoms and your partner has not noticed that you’re grinding your teeth, your dentist may still be able to tell.

How can you protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism?

If you grind your teeth, one way that you can protect your teeth is by wearing a night guard to bed. The best night guards are custom-made for the patient, for a comfortable fit. Your dentist can help you get a custom night guard to protect your teeth.

Think you grind your teeth at night? Contact your dentist in Jacksonville.

You can get help for your teeth. Start by talking to your dentist about nightguards in Jacksonville, FL. Your dentist can help you get custom nightguards that fit easily on your teeth to protect them from the effects of tooth grinding. Call Mandarin Dentistry today to make an appointment.