Cavities are quite literally holes in your teeth. And like any hole, they can expand. Cavities occur when bacteria and acids in your mouth destroy teeth enamel. When the protective enamel is destroyed, a cavity will continue to eat into your teeth to cause decay. If ignored, tooth decay will reach your nerves and blood vessels. While getting dentists to fill the cavity is the only way to remove it, you can undertake several actions to prevent it from spreading until your dental appointment.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste And Mouthwash

Fluoride helps to prevent bacteria from multiplying thanks to its bacteriostatic properties. This mineral can prevent or reverse the progression of tooth decay because it prevents the loss of minerals and replaces any lost minerals in tooth enamel. Fluoride also decreases the capability of bacteria to produce acids in your mouth. These teeth strengthening features will make your teeth more resistant to cavities in the long run. Fluoride-enriched toothpastes are easily available. You can also use fluoride mouthwashes and gels to prevent your cavity from spreading before visiting dentists. Some dentists may recommend prescription-based fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay after your visit.

Drink Plenty Of Water

A parched mouth can trigger tooth decay because it allows the buildup of all types of bacteria in your mouth. When allowed to sit for too long, these bacteria will start causing cavities. Make sure your mouth is moist at all times by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to prevent the progression of the cavity. Be sure to rinse away food particles that could trigger bigger problems. A good idea is to brush your teeth after every meal to prevent food residue from decaying your teeth further. 

Stay Away From All Sugary Foods And Drinks

Cavities are usually caused because bacteria in the mouth produce acids over time. These types of bacteria use sugars found in teeth plaque to cause more harm. Eating sugary foods and drinks will fuel the strength of these bacteria to produce acids for decaying your teeth. Keep in mind that sugary drinks like fruit juices, sports drinks and soft drinks are acidic and will promote tooth decay over time. Similarly, chocolates and desserts will also produce acids for premature tooth decaying. If you eat any sugary food, be sure to drink plenty of water. This will help your mouth to produce more saliva for washing away the sugar and reducing acidic growth.

Before your appointment at the dentist's office, be sure to follow these actionable strategies for preventing your cavity from spreading further. For more ideas and tips, contact local dentists.