Tooth decay can feel like it sneaks up on you, but it’s almost always preventable. With consistent daily habits and regular dental care, you can protect your teeth and avoid painful problems like cavities, infections, or tooth loss.
At Keystone Rural Health Consortia in Bradford, PA, Dr. Stacy Hey, DMD, and Brittany Elton, RDH, PHDHP, help families take control of their oral health before problems begin. Our team focuses on prevention, early diagnosis, and education for every patient, especially children, older adults, and those with increased risk of dental caries.
Now, let’s explore how small daily choices can make a big impact on your long-term dental health.
1. Brush Your Teeth Properly Twice a Day
Brushing your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste helps remove food particles and dental plaque—the sticky film that bacteria thrive on. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush all tooth surfaces (including the back teeth and along the gumline), and aim for at least two minutes each session.
Poor brushing habits are one of the main reasons early tooth decay advances into deeper layers of the tooth, potentially requiring dental fillings or more invasive tooth decay treatments.
2. Floss Daily to Remove Hidden Plaque
Even the best brushing can’t reach between your teeth. Daily flossing removes food debris and harmful bacteria from tight spaces that toothbrush bristles can’t access. This reduces your risk of cavities between the teeth and gum disease from trapped plaque buildup.
Flossing also supports tooth root health and prevents receding gums, a condition that can expose roots to bacteria and sensitivity.
3. Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Recommended Products
Fluoride is essential for protecting tooth enamel and repairing early signs of decay. Using a fluoride toothpaste strengthens your teeth and helps reverse early damage caused by acid-producing bacteria.
Our providers may also recommend additional fluoride treatments as part of your visit.
4. Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Frequent consumption of sugary drinks, sticky snacks, or processed foods fuels the bacteria that cause cavities. These bacteria produce acid that erodes enamel, especially when food particles linger on chewing surfaces or between teeth.
Try to limit sugary items and follow them with water when consumed. A healthy diet supports both oral and overall health, especially when meals are balanced, nutrient-rich, and low in added sugars.
5. Eat Nutritious Foods That Strengthen Teeth
Incorporating calcium-rich foods, lean proteins, and crunchy fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots) supports tooth strength and saliva production. Saliva is crucial for rinsing away bacteria, neutralizing acid, and protecting enamel.
Avoid frequent snacking and stick to structured meals to give your saliva time to cleanse your teeth between eating.
6. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups in Bradford, PA
Early detection is key. Routine dental exams and professional cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar), identify signs of early tooth decay, and give your provider a chance to offer preventive treatments.
Our Bradford office is proud to offer gentle, judgment-free care tailored to each patient’s needs, especially for families, older adults, and children’s teeth.
7. Speak Up About Tooth Sensitivity or Pain
Tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or visible discoloration may signal early tooth decay. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent them from progressing into larger issues.
Don’t wait until discomfort worsens—our team is here to help with gentle evaluations and treatment planning.
8. Address Dry Mouth and Saliva Flow Issues
Dry mouth (xerostomia) reduces your body’s natural defense against tooth decay. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acid and washing away bacteria. If you're experiencing dry mouth, speak to your dental provider. They may recommend lifestyle changes, saliva-boosting strategies, or fluoride rinses.
Dry mouth is common in older adults and can be a side effect of certain medications or health conditions.
9. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Excess
Smoking not only stains your teeth but also reduces blood flow to the gums and weakens your immune response, both of which increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Alcohol can dry out your mouth and expose teeth to more acid.
Avoiding tobacco and drinking in moderation supports a healthier smile and reduces the likelihood of serious dental issues, including tooth loss.
10. See a Dentist at the First Sign of Tooth Pain or Sensitivity
Don’t wait until a toothache becomes unbearable. If you experience sharp pain, tooth sensitivity, or signs of early tooth decay (like white spots, dark areas, or mouth pain), see a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent the need for more complex procedures such as root canals or extractions.
Dr. Hey, or our dental hygienist Ms. Elton, at Keystone is here to help you restore comfort and confidence with proactive care in our Bradford, PA, clinic.
Protect Your Smile with Keystone Dental in Bradford, PA
Preventing tooth decay is possible—and it starts with the simple choices you make each day. At Keystone, we’re proud to support patients with preventive dental care that keeps their smile strong for life.
Call (814) 362-5060 or request an appointment online to schedule your next visit. Together, we can help you and your family achieve optimal oral health and stop decay before it starts.
