Dental cavities are a common problem. About 25 percent of all adults over the age of 20 have cavities. Fortunately, preventing cavities is not too difficult. All you need is to watch what you eat and drink, maintain good oral hygiene, and get dental care. Here are three ways you can prevent cavities.

Cut Back on Sugary and Acidic Drinks

Did you know that prolonged exposure to acidic drinks can increase the risk of cavities? This is why you must avoid taking too many acidic and sugary drinks. It’s also important to rinse your mouth with water after having a sugary drink. The problem with taking too many acidic and sugary drinks is that the sugars in the drinks stay in your mouth and saliva for a long time. Apart from rinsing your mouth after having sugary drinks, it’s also encouraged to drink using a straw so that you keep the sugary fluids off your teeth and out of your saliva.

Floss Regularly

Most people think that flossing is difficult, but the truth is it can get a lot easier if you get used to it. Flossing is a very effective form of dental care. If you just brush your teeth without flossing, chances are you aren’t leaving your teeth as clean as they should be. Remember that your teeth have five sides. So if you just stick to brushing, it means you are only cleaning three sides and neglecting the other two. Keep in mind that flossing will only take a few minutes of your day, but it can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. If you want to start flossing, you can try it out as you are watching TV or reading a book. However, try to floss just after meals. You can also do it on the go. The most important thing is to turn it into a routine that sticks.

Brush Your Teeth Regularly

It’s crucial to brush your teeth with the correct toothbrush if you want to prevent cavities. This is probably the most effective and yet very simple dental care tip you will come across. It’s not advisable to let bacteria multiply in your mouth, and that is what will happen if you don’t brush. Bacteria feed on the sugars in your mouth, and they leave behind toxic waste in the form of a biofilm known as dental plaque. Plaque enables bacteria to stick on your teeth for a long time, and they keep on releasing acids that lead to cavities. You can prevent this by brushing your teeth regularly.

These are just some of the ways you can maintain good oral hygiene and prevent cavities. Follow these simple tips and get your dental care on track today.