Tooth Decay Prevention in Great Neck NY

Decay Prevention: Keep Your Smile Healthy

A smile is a great way to greet someone, encourage a friend or simply brighten your mood. At Passes Dental Care, we understand that some people need a little help when it comes to keeping teeth their healthiest. Dr. Passes, your local Great Neck dentist, can perform professional cleanings and services to prevent issues such as tooth decay, which can cause pain and costly repairs. In order to keep smiling with comfort and confidence, follow his tips for warding off tooth decay.

What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria naturally present in your mouth interact with sugars from the foods you consume, producing acids that can erode the mineral structure of your teeth. This progressive disease can result in:

The formation of cavities
Nerve damage in more severe cases
The need for fillings or crowns to restore the tooth to a healthy condition

Fortunately, there are several preventative steps you can take to avoid these issues.

Get Sealants

Your mouth contains various types of teeth, including back teeth (molars) designed for grinding and chewing. These teeth have grooves and depressions where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate, forming corrosive acids that wear down tooth enamel. Studies indicate that nearly 90% of cavities in school-age children arise from this process.

The good news is that you can protect these vulnerable areas with dental sealants. Typically applied to molars and premolars, these resin-based sealants can last for years if regularly checked by your dentist, effectively preventing food and bacteria from becoming trapped.

Use Fluoride

Fluoride is a powerful ally in the fight against tooth decay. If you're unsure whether your water is fluoridated, contact your utility company for information. Our team can also recommend fluoride supplements to ensure you're getting enough. Be sure to choose toothpaste that contains fluoride, and maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine to further protect your teeth.

Help Your Children Prevent Tooth Decay

Establishing good dental hygiene habits early is essential for children. Teach them proper brushing and flossing techniques, and ensure they visit the dentist for regular check-ups every six months. While developing these positive habits is crucial, you may also need to address any detrimental habits, such as thumb-sucking.

If your child continues to suck their thumb after their primary teeth have emerged, it may affect the proper growth of their permanent teeth. Our team can provide strategies to help your child stop thumb-sucking, such as:

Praising them for avoiding the behavior
Eliminating the anxiety that causes the behavior
Using a bandage or sock on their hand overnight

Contact Us Today

At Passes Dental Care, our mission is to help you achieve the best possible oral health. We’re here to guide you in preventing dental issues with Dr. Passes’ expert recommendations, and we also offer general, implant, and cosmetic dentistry to restore your healthy smile. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact our office today to schedule an appointment!