Caring for the health of your teeth is critical when it comes to preserving the function and aesthetic of your smile. Cavities that are caused by decay can wreak havoc on your oral health. Preventing these cavities from forming will allow you to avoid the dental procedures required to fix them and keep your natural teeth strong and healthy.

Here are three simple things that you can do to avoid getting cavities in the future.

1. Replace your toothbrush regularly.

Most people know that brushing their teeth daily is an important part of any oral hygiene routine. What they fail to realize is that brushing with an old toothbrush could actually be doing more harm than good. Bacteria can collect on the head of your toothbrush over time.

As you scrub the surface of your teeth with the toothbrush, the bacteria will be transferred onto your teeth. Introducing new bacteria into your mouth can accelerate the rate of decay, causing you to create a cavity. Experts suggest that you replace your toothbrush at least once every three months and after each cold or flu that you may suffer from to avoid the transfer of bacteria.

2. Invest in dental cleanings based on your cavity risk.

Visiting your dentist regularly can be helpful when trying to prevent cavities. While most people have heard that they should visit the dentist at least once a year for a professional cleaning, you may find that you need these cleanings more often if your risk level for dental problems is high.

Be sure that you take the time to discuss your dental risks with your dentist and create a professional cleaning schedule based on these risks that will help you prevent cavities from forming over time.

3. Eat a balanced diet.

One of the easiest things that you can do to prevent the formation of cavities is to protect your teeth with a balanced diet. Eating a diet that allows you to get all of your essential vitamins and minerals will give your body access to the materials it needs to create strong enamel.

You should limit your sugar and carbohydrate intake and drink water regularly throughout the day to encourage healthy saliva production that will flush away bacteria and food particles from the surface of your teeth. Eating a balanced diet helps to make your teeth strong enough to resist the formation of cavities in the future.

Being able to prevent cavities can help you ensure you have a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.