The demineralization may be prevented with fluoride. If a tooth is beginning to decay, topical fluoride, such as with toothpaste, a rinse or in the saliva is the best line of defense against cavities. If it has sugar, it can cause decay. Any food that places sugar in the mouth for long periods of time, such as lollipops, sticky candies and soda can cause decay. Carbohydrates, such as rice and pasta, should be brushed off teeth as soon as possible, since they are easily converted to sugars.
Sealants are important tools against tooth decay.
Even if the enamel has fluoride in it, there are pits and grooves on the chewing surface of most back teeth. Since food and plaque are pushed into these surfaces each time you chew and these grooves are more narrow than a single toothbrush bristle, these are prime location for decay to start. Sealants are plastic-like material that is painlessly flowed into these grooves, making them smooth and therefore less likely to get chewing surface decay. A properly placed sealant is extremely effective in preventing chewing surface cavities. Not only is plaque the culprit in developing decay, but also the cause of gum and periodontal disease.