Even though the average person knows quite a bit about oral hygiene, tooth decay is still exceptionally common. One study published by the CDC revealed that 96 percent of adults have some form of tooth decay by the age of 65. These few tips will help you avoid cavities and a variety of other pervasive oral health problems.

Limit Your Intake of Sugar and Starch

Most of the germs that are in your mouth are actually good for your oral health, but some will damage your teeth when they are given a steady supply of food. Those germs are going to thrive if you eat carbohydrates and processed sugar throughout the day. When you do have sweet snacks or baked goods, you should immediately rinse your mouth out with water. You also need to avoid those snacks right before bed and any other time you won’t be able to brush for a few hours.

Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods

Sticking to a varied and nutritious diet is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and other forms of tooth decay. Nutrient-dense foods will supply you with all of the vitamins and minerals that your teeth need to stay strong. Most of your meals should consist of fresh vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains. Cheese and other dairy products are very good for your teeth as well, but they can cause digestion issues in some people.

Drink Plenty of Water

When you drink a large glass of water, you are going to wash away some of the lingering germs and food debris in your mouth. That is one of the reasons why it is such a good idea to drink a large glass of water after every single meal and snack. As an added bonus, drinking plenty of water is also going to suppress your appetite. Instead of reaching for a candy bar or soda, you might want to chug a cold glass of water.

Schedule Biannual Appointments with a Dentist

No matter how healthy your teeth seem to be, you still need to head to a dental clinic at least twice a year. During those visits, a dentist will thoroughly check your mouth for any early warning signs of gum disease or tooth decay. They can also clean the plaque and tartar off all of your teeth. Those who are prone to gum disease might need to schedule three or more dental appointments every year.

Just because tooth decay is an extremely common health issue doesn’t mean that you need to accept it without a fight. Immaculate hygiene habits and a healthy diet will drastically reduce your risk of cavities.