Preventing cavities: the practical oral hygiene guide

How a cavity forms

Bacteria in your mouth turn sugar from food into acids that attack the enamel. Over time, this repeated attack demineralises the enamel and forms a cavity. Plaque build-up, especially in hard-to-reach spots, speeds the process.

That is why prevention means two things: removing plaque through good hygiene and limiting the bacteria’s “fuel”, frequently eaten sugar.

Brushing correctly

Brush twice a day, two minutes each time, with a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens the enamel and makes it more resistant to acids. Use gentle circular motions and do not forget the gumline, where plaque gathers most.

Replace your brush every 2–3 months, or sooner if the bristles splay. A worn brush cleans far less effectively.

What matters besides brushing

A brush cannot reach between teeth, that is where floss or interdental brushes come in, once a day. Many cavities appear exactly in the spaces brushing misses.

Diet matters too: not just how much sugar you eat, but how often. Repeated sugary snacks keep the mouth acidic almost constantly. Plain water after meals helps neutralise the acids.

The role of regular check-ups

A check-up every 6 months and a professional scaling remove the tartar brushing can no longer clean and catch early cavities, when treatment is simple and cheap. Prevention is always easier than treatment.