Saliva Test Predicts Future Cavities Risk

Cavity-Fighting Tips

Good (or bad) oral hygiene and nutrition can change dental health. It's important to take care of teeth and eat healthfully, but that may not solve all tooth problems. Overzealous brushing can wear down tooth enamel, and completely eliminating sugar from kids' diets has not been shown to totally prevent cavities, says the news release.

The CARE test could also help families that can't afford regular dental checkups, say the researchers, suggesting that school nurses may one day administer the test.

But that would just be the first step in avoiding cavities. The CARE test only predicts cavities. Prevention would still require proper dental care.

To help prevent cavities, try these tactics:

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Preferably, brush after each meal and before bedtime with a toothpaste containing fluoride. The American Dental Association suggests brushing with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth daily. Use dental floss or interdental cleaners. Since cavity-causing bacteria and food particles remain in between teeth, flossing can help remove this.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. If you indulge in starchy, sugary, or sticky foods, brush afterwards.
• Consult your dentist. Get regular cleanings and checkups, and ask for other cavity-prevention tips.

SOURCES: American Association for the Advancement of Science Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C. Feb. 17-21, 2005. WebMD Medical Reference in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: "Cavities." News release, University of Southern California School of Dentistry. WebMD Medical News in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: "Preventing Tooth Decay and Cavities." American Dental Association.