Do you find yourself diagnosed with tooth decay every time you go to the dentist for a teeth cleaning? Do you often suffer from tooth pain and need an emergency dental appointment? Some people are more susceptible to cavities, no matter how diligent you are about oral hygiene. Find out what’s going on with your teeth and how to improve your chances of a healthy, cavity-free mouth.
Common Causes of Tooth Decay
You might brush your teeth twice daily, floss once a day, and see your dentist regularly for dental care, but sometimes these best efforts still see you ending up with cavities. This is a frustrating reality, but it helps to know the main causes of tooth decay: sugar and genetics.
- Conscious and unconscious sugar consumption: You might not have a sweet tooth, but think about the quantities of sugar in the foods you do eat. Energy drinks, fruit, soda, bread – they all contain sugar, a sweetener that is, frankly, difficult to avoid. If your teeth are susceptible to sugar damage, even the healthiest diet can contribute to oral health problems.
- Unnoticed dental problems: Let’s say you are a teeth grinder. There is a good chance, with or without a night guard, that you’ve done damage to your oral health, causing cracks or holes to develop that allow sugar and bacteria to move in and cause tooth decay.
- Genetic factors: Many people have molars with deep crevices on the biting surface. This topography is a serious problem when it comes to sugar and bacteria taking root. Add in thin tooth enamel – a genetic factor you can’t control – and you’re even more prone to tooth decay.
- Dry mouth: Age, medications, and health problems like autoimmune conditions and stress can all contribute to dry mouth. When there isn’t enough saliva to continuously clean your teeth or wash them in calcium and phosphate to help neutralize acid, cavities are likely.
How to Prevent Cavities
It isn’t fun to be someone who gets cavities all the time, but recognizing where you fall on this spectrum is half the battle. Once you know your chances of tooth decay and why, you can do your very best to prevent the need for tooth-colored fillings and other restorative dentistry whenever possible.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush thoroughly twice a day and floss at least once a day. An electric toothbrush is kind to your teeth and fluoride toothpaste too.
- Pay attention to what you eat: Whether your idea of a snack is a few gummy bears or an especially chewy protein bar, clean your teeth extra well to remove as many leftover food particles as possible.
- Say yes to sealants: Sealants are not just for kids. If you are prone to cavities and have especially grooved teeth, talk to your Red Bank dentist about sealing your teeth for protection from decay.
- Get a night guard: If you suffer from sleep bruxism and grind and clench your teeth, you’re prone to plenty of oral health problems, not just decay. Discuss a customized night guard with your dentist.
Suspect you have tooth decay? Don’t wait until your next teeth cleaning. Contact Dr. Carole Sherrod Jewell at Red Bank Dentistry to get checked right away.
