Professional advice for avoiding cavities:   If stopping cavities is important to you then here is some information you need to know!   The latest science is now showing that although sugar intake plays a role in the process of decay, it is not the most important factor.   It turns out that the most important influencing factor is the amount of acid to which you expose your mouth.   To help minimize your risk for decay it is helpful to consider some of the ways you might be exposed to acids.   The two most common sources of acid are either from (1) substances that are acidic in nature such as lemon juice (citiric acid) and diet and regular sodas (carbonic and phosphoric acid) and (2) foods that contain fermentable carbohydrates such as sucrose, lactose or more complex carbohydrates. 

Because it is not practical to avoid these foods and beverages completely, here is some practical advice to help minimize your risk for decay: 

• When drinking acidic beverages, drink them over shorter periods of time minimizing your exporsure to the acid. 
• Drink water throughout your day.  This helps to lower the concentration of acid in your mouth during the times that your are exposed. 
• When possible, brush after breakfast, lunch and dinner. 
• Use a fluoridated toothpaste – the fluoride helps strengthen your enamel making it more resistant to acid break down. 
• Be aware that the things you eat have an impact on your oral health.  The better your day to day choices, the less likely you are to need fillings or worse!

We hope that you found this information helpful.   Our primary goal is helping you meet your oral health goals.  To learn more about the advanced care that we offer at Blodgett Dental Care, visit our website at www.blodgettdentalcare.com.