Limit acid exposure
Acidic foods and drinks such as orange juice and lemon water can contribute to demineralization of your teeth. Having some occasionally is fine, but frequent and prolonged exposure to these can lead to cavities. Vomiting (purging, bulimia) also exposes your teeth to strong stomach acid.
Don’t snack or sip on carbohydrates
Prolonged exposure to carbohydrates means bacteria are constantly producing acid, which leads to cavities. Chefs and other professions that require constantly tasting foods are at very high risk for getting cavities.
Certain candies (mints and other hard candies) or medications (cough drops, antacids, etc.) that stay in your mouth for a long time also cause cavities.
Fluoride
Fluoride from your toothpaste and fluoride varnishes applied by your dentist will help to remineralize your teeth. The fluorapatite that forms from remineralization with fluoride is more resistant to demineralization in an acidic environment.
Oral Hygiene
Dental plaque begins forming 4-12 hours after brushing. The goal of oral hygiene is to disrupt the bacterial biofilm mechanically. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes each time (we recommend an electric toothbrush). Floss at least once a day. This limits the damage that bad bacteria can cause and promotes good bacteria in your mouth.
If you are lucky, you may not have any of the bacteria that cause cavities. In that case, oral hygiene is still important for preventing gum disease.
Saliva
In a healthy environment, your mouth will only be acidic during mealtimes. After meals, your saliva will buffer the acid, bringing it to a more neutral state. Cancer treatments (e.g. chemotherapy, radiation) can reduce your saliva flow, putting you at very high risk for cavities. Certain medications (e.g. antihistamines, blood pressure medication, diuretics, antipsychotics) can also decrease saliva. Methamphetamine in particular inhibits saliva secretion. If you experience dry mouth, try gum or lozenges with xylitol (xylitol should be the first ingredient) to help stimulate saliva flow. Ask your dentist about other options.