Hi, I’m Dr. Inessa. As a dentist here in Hewlett, New York, I often hear patients say, “I come in for my cleanings every six months, so I shouldn’t be getting cavities.”
Regular dental visits are important — and we truly enjoy seeing our patients — but here’s the honest truth: coming to the dentist alone doesn’t prevent cavities.
The most important work in protecting your teeth happens at home, every single day.
Where Cavities Really Come From
Cavities don’t appear overnight. They develop gradually when bacteria in your mouth interact with the foods and drinks you consume, especially sugary or acidic ones. Over time, this process can weaken the outer layer of your teeth and lead to decay.
Several everyday factors play a role:
Bacteria in your mouth that produce acids
What you eat and drink, and how often
Your natural risk factors, including genetics
Your daily habits, like brushing and flossing
We often talk about gum health and bleeding gums, but preventing cavities is just as important for keeping your smile healthy long-term.
So What Does the Dentist Actually Do?
If daily habits are the foundation of cavity prevention, what role does the dentist play?
At DNTL SPOT, our role is to check, monitor, and catch problems early. During your visits, we look for early signs of tooth decay or gum irritation — often before you feel any discomfort.
Finding small issues early helps keep treatment simple and helps you avoid more involved dental work later on.
Small Daily Habits Make a Big Difference
Healthy teeth don’t require extreme changes. They come from simple habits done consistently.
Here’s what we recommend to every patient:
Brush twice a day
Brush for two full minutes in the morning and at night using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure. Scrubbing harder doesn’t clean better — it can actually irritate your gums.
Floss daily (this one really matters)
If there’s one habit people tend to skip, it’s flossing — and it’s also one of the most important. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush simply can’t reach. When flossing is skipped, cavities and gum irritation can start quietly between teeth without causing pain right away.
Be mindful of snacking
Frequent snacking, especially on sweets, keeps your mouth in an acidic state. Giving your teeth breaks between meals helps protect enamel and lowers your risk of cavities.
If you notice bleeding when you brush or floss, that’s a sign your gums are irritated — not a reason to stop. With consistent brushing and flossing, bleeding often improves as your gums become healthier.
Your Oral Health Is Largely in Your Hands
One of the things we believe strongly at DNTL SPOT is that patients do best when they feel informed and in control of their health.
We’re here to guide you, support you, and catch problems early — but your everyday habits are the most powerful tools you have to protect your teeth and gums.
When home care is consistent, dental visits become easier, more comfortable, and more preventive.
Want Help Improving Your Routine?
If you’re unsure whether you’re brushing effectively, flossing properly, or choosing the right foods for your smile, we’re always happy to help.
A visit with us isn’t just about treatment — it’s about understanding what’s going on in your mouth and learning how to keep it healthy for years to come.
