Dealing with Tooth Decay

Understanding decay and how to deal with it can be tricky, but getting on top of it will make a huge difference to prevent potential long-term damage and fewer visits to the dental chair.

When we think of cavities and decay, we often associate it with a sweet tooth from snacking on things like chocolate, sweets, and fizzy drinks. But the truth is, hidden sugars in healthy foods such as fruit and juices can often be the cause of decay!

We’re going to look at the cause of tooth decay, what to watch out for and our top tips to prevent it.

What causes tooth decay

1. Eating too often

 Let's put it this way, the more you eat, the more chance you have of experiencing tooth decay. The main causes of tooth decay are snacking frequently or having a high sugar diet. Sugar can be hidden in healthy snacks such as fruit so it’s important to be mindful of that! We also advise you to brush your teeth right before bed when you know you’ve finished eating for this day, this ensures you’re not letting sugars or foods absorb on the teeth overnight while you sleep.

 

2. Not using a fluoride toothpaste 

We cannot stress the importance of using a toothpaste that contains the active ingredient fluoride. Fluoride helps to prevent decay in both adults and children - all of Spotlight Oral Care’s toothpaste range contain fluoride.

 

What can you do to prevent decay and cavities?

We would advise patients to cut back on snacking or to be mindful of what foods they’re snacking on throughout the day. Reducing your intake of sugar will lessen your risk of decay. We’d also advise using a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. Using a mouthwash that contains fluoride, around lunchtime each day, will help reintroduce the active ingredients that combat decay.

 

Are some people more prone to cavities or tooth decay?

We know that people who snack more regularly, even on things such as fruit or healthy foods can be more prone to decay. But people who have issues with their enamel can actually be more at risk of decay.

Certain professions like chefs who taste food and athletes who need to eat more often. Every time you eat anything the pH of your mouth is affected for 45 mins which causes decay so it's generally a case of how often you eat rather than what you eat that causes decay.

 

Is it reversible if caught at an early stage?

Yes at a very early stage decay is reversible. That's why regular check-ups with your dentist are so important. If you suspect you’re experiencing decay or are worried about any changes to your teeth or gums, book in for a check-up with your dentist.

 

What ingredients or products can help prevent decay?

Fluoride in your oral care products is proven to combat decay and improve your overall oral health. We would advise using it twice a day morning and evening.

We would recommend:

Toothpaste for Total Care

Our toothpaste for total care has been formulated to combat the most common problems in dental health. It contains the active ingredients fluoride and pentasodium triphosphate. Our total care toothpaste protects teeth from cavities and desensitises hypersensitivity.

Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

Our toothpaste for sensitive teeth is suitable for those that suffer from sensitivity. It contains the active ingredients fluoride and potassium triphosphate. It protects from cavities and desensitises hypersensitivity.