Yes, cavities suck. You know it. I know it. Cavities are like your very clingy ex. They seem to never quite go away and always leave their nasty signs behind. But hey, you don't have to live with it. There are things you, yes you, can do to prevent them and show them the door for good.

Like an over-obsessive parent, visit the dentist regularly to keep your teeth in check. Don't just trust your mirror, those shelves of tartars can be pretty sneaky. Make it your mission to get a professional dental cleaning done twice a year.

While at it, brush those pearly whites like you mean it. Twice a day is the mantra. Set a timer and give a solid 2 minutes to each of your upper and lower beauties both inside and outside. Don’t skimp on flossing either, it's like the secret weapon in your oral hygiene arsenal.

Fluoride is your tooth enamel's personal bodyguard. Get a toothpaste with fluoride and let your teeth rock that hard enamel like a diva on the stage. Despite fluoride in our water, some of us don’t get enough of it, turning ourselves into the perfect hosts for cavities.

Before you take another sip of your soda or lay hands on that shiny candy, think of your teeth battling with cavity-creating carbs. Moderation is key. Replace your dessert cravings with nutrient-rich whole grains, fruits, and veggies instead.

Snacking all day puts your teeth through a cavity carnage. Hold the fort and limit your eating and drinking to meal times.

Hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate. Quenching your thirst not only cleanses your mouth but also keeps that fantastic natural mouthwash – saliva – in plentiful. No saliva, no natural defenses, hello cavities!

Puffing cigarettes also increases your chances for cavities to party in your mouth. Besides drying your mouth and welcoming cavities with open arms, smoking impacts the immune system in your mouth, allowing plaque to make itself at home.

If your toothbrush seems like it has gone for a wild party night and has forgotten its duty, it's time for a change. A worn-out toothbrush is a perfect crib for cavity-causing bacteria. Be brutal and get a new brush every three to four months.

If the pain seems to abide permanently in your tooth and you feel your tooth seems to be on a self-destruction mission, get an appointment with your dentist. An insight and appropriate treatment are better than losing the teeth and crying over the lost shine.

Remember, maintaining your dental health ain't just about flashing those pearly whites for selfies. Resist the lure of quick fixes and cultivate good habits instead. Skip the bull and eat that kale, for your teeth might just thank you later.