Teeth cavities, or dental caries, are one of the most common dental issues in children and adults. They look like small holes in the teeth surface or enamel, resulting from a series of factors, including bacteria, diet, and inadequate oral hygiene. Knowing the causes of cavities can help prevent and maintain good dental health.
Who is Prone to Teeth Cavities?
Cavities can affect anyone including children, teenagers, and seniors. Typically, individuals with diets high in sugars and carbs, as well as those with reduced saliva flow due to medical conditions or medications, face a higher risk of having dental cavities. If you consume a lot of cold drinks, and caffeine, then this may lead to cavities as well.
5 Common Causes of Teeth Cavities
- Poor Oral Hygiene: When you don’t brush or floss regularly or well enough, it can lead to plaque accumulation on teeth, which results in cavities. Plaque is a yellowish film or layer you can find on your teeth when you have poor oral hygiene. It harbours harmful bacteria that produce acids, attacking tooth enamel.
- Diet High in Sugars and Acids: Did you know that oral bacteria can feed on sugary and acidic food particles in your teeth and cause cavities? This is why it is so important to pay attention to your diet while caring for your oral health too.
- Dry Mouth: Saliva neutralises acids and washes away food particles. A lack of saliva, often due to certain medications or conditions, can increase the risk of tooth decay.
- Tooth Anatomy and Enamel Issues: Those with deep crevices in their teeth or weak enamel are more susceptible to cavities. These factors can make teeth more vulnerable to plaque and acid attacks.
- Age-Related Dental Changes: Longer exposure to sugary liquids from baby bottles can cause cavities in children. Older adults may experience enamel wear and receding gums, exposing teeth to decay.
How to Prevent Cavities
- Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Incorporate products like makeO toothsi’s electric toothbrush and water flosser into your oral hygiene routine for efficient cleaning.
- Eat Tooth-Healthy Foods: Consume foods that strengthen your teeth like dairy products, leafy greens, and fresh fruits. Reduce your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
- Regular Dental Checkups and Smile Correction: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. If your dentist finds that your tooth anatomy is not ideal and needs correction, you can fix your smile with modern instruments like the makeO toothsi aligners and prevent teeth cavities and other problems. To know more about invisible aligners, head to makeO toothsi’s website now!
- Use Mouthwash: Use a therapeutic mouthwash to help reduce plaque and remove remaining food particles.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth moist.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps clean the mouth.
- Fluoride Treatments: Consider professional fluoride treatments if you’re at high risk for cavities.
In short, understanding and addressing the common causes of tooth cavities is key to preventing them. Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, regular dental visits and makeO toothsi’s range of effective and convenient oral care products and services are fundamental to maintaining healthy teeth. By being aware of these causes, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their dental health.
