Why Do You Get Cavities The Newest Research
Why Do You Get Cavities The Newest Research
We always thought that decay was due to lack of or improper tooth brushing. We now know there is a lot more to decay than just tooth brushing. It has to do with your saliva, diet, sugar intake, how often you eat and how you protect your teeth.
Acid reflux, commonly called heart burn, is a major causing factor. Acid reflux causes acid to come up into your mouth and lower the PH of your saliva, resulting in your saliva becoming more acidic. The bacteria that cause decay, thrive and multiply in a more acidic, lower PH environment. These bacteria stick to your teeth due to the presence of plaque and cause the teeth to decalcify. The bacteria produce acid by eating the plaque and that acid is what causes the teeth to decay. Fluoride is a one of the most important things you can do to help strengthen your teeth. Fluoride tooth paste with Stannus fluroride, fluoride rinse and in office fluoride treatments are essential to keep your teeth healthy.
Here are some top tooth decay causes you might not know about
Are Only Sugary Foods to Blame? Avoiding candy doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for getting decay. Most cavities come from hidden sugars like those in sports drinks, juices, sodas (even the diet ones) and diets high in carbohydrates (like crackers, bread, or other common snack foods.)
Bad Nutrition: Harmful to Your Body and Your Teeth
If it’s “bad” for your body, it’s probably “bad” for your teeth. Remember, you are what you eat! Fresh foods are best. Fibrous fruits and vegetables clean your teeth while you eat them, and give your body plenty of nutrients to ward off infection. Omega 3 fatty acids can treat periodontist, as well as help with inflammation. Additionally, there is a possibility that cheese can prevent cavities while improving your overall oral health.
“But I Don’t Have Poor Oral Hygiene!”
What is good oral hygiene? Brushing twice a day? Flossing every now and then? Check to see that you’re using a soft toothbrush and brushing slowly, focused on the gum lines and only brushing one or two teeth at a time. Fast, rigorous brushing can leave large areas of biofilm behind. Always follow up with floss at least once a day — because tooth brushing can’t clean between — to remove the germs that cause cavities. Don’t forget to use a fluoridated toothpaste. If necessary you can come to our office and we can write a prescription for one that’s stronger.
Are Cavities or Teeth Grinding to Blame?
Maybe your teeth are starting to look broken, worn, or feel sharp to your tongue. It might not be cavities that are the cause — but bruxism — a teeth grinding habit that causes your enamel to break itself apart. Old fillings may even start to fracture and fall out, even if you have great oral hygiene. Wearing a protective guard at night or when you’re driving home from work can reduce the tension to your enamel, extending the investment of your restorative dental treatment and the life of your teeth. Your teeth were not designed to last 100 years without being protected.
Finding an Out for Your Enamel Issues
“My parents had bad teeth. I’m bound to as well. ”This concept seems like an easy out, but it’s no excuse for neglecting your teeth. Working with a great dentist and hygienist can help you focus on areas that are more at-risk for cavities, such as demineralized surfaces or exposed roots. Even adding in extra fluoride can keep cavities at bay, when you would otherwise be looking at a future filled with dental work.
What Does Age Have to Do With Anything?
There are a few factors at play when it comes to tooth decay causes. One of which is age. Take children for instance; their primary (baby) teeth are far less dense than the permanent counterparts. As such, cavities can spread far more rapidly, involving more than just one tooth.
Older adults see an increase in decay as well, usually because of aging fillings, gum recession, and dry mouth (due to medications.) As such, it’s vital for people of all ages to receive routine checkups so that decay can be intercepted at its earliest stage.
These top tooth decay causes can be the gateway to more severe issues with your dental health. By just tweaking your daily routine you can improve smile and your oral hygiene. It is essential that you have regular dental checkup and discuss these issues with your dentist. At Diamond Dental Associates, we will help you prevent these problems and keep a beautiful sparkling smile. Contact us at 908-838-0004.
“Changing lives one smile at a time”
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