Cavity prevention

What contributes to cavities? Cavities usually develop when sugary foods and drinks are combined with inadequate brushing and flossing.

After eating, bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and carbohydrates and produce acids that can weaken the teeth. These acid attacks can last for about 20 minutes, and repeated exposure over time can lead to cavities.

Saliva helps protect the teeth by washing away food and neutralizing acids, but frequent snacking and sugary drinks make it harder for the mouth to recover.

How to help prevent cavities

• Limit frequent snacking
• Encourage brushing and daily flossing
• Choose water more often than sugary drinks
• Avoid sticky snacks that stay on the teeth
• Serve sweets with meals instead of between meals
• Offer healthier snack choices when possible