What Are Cavities And What Causes Them?

By Author: James Franklin
Total Articles: 199
Comment this article

Otherwise known as tooth decay, cavities happen when bacteria living in the mouth produce acid that starts to eat away at the teeth. The decaying process starts at the enamel of the tooth before progressing to the deeper layers of the tooth until it reaches the pulp which contains sensitive nerves and blood vessels. When left untreated, cavities can cause pain, infection and loss of tooth. Below are some of the most common causes of cavities.
• Poor oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing is important in preventing cavities. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time, and floss once daily.
• Tooth crevices and enamel problems. Deep crevices and enamel issues give plaque and bacteria a place to grow. Dentists usually use dental sealants to prevent tooth decay.
• Improper nutrition. Foods high in sugar, acid and carbohydrates can damage the tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. A healthy diet can do wonders in your dental health.
• High-sugar foods. Bacteria in the mouth feed off sugary foods. If eating these food items cannot be avoided, make sure to brush your teeth immediately ...
... afterwards to prevent acid formation.
• Acidic foods. Aside from carbonated beverages and fruit juices, there are many other food items that contain acid, bread and fish included. Avoid these as much as you can.
• Dry mouth. Saliva helps inhibit plaque growth, so people with dry mouth problems have a high chance of acquiring dental issues which can eventually lead to tooth decay.
• Tooth grinding. Tooth grinding usually happens during sleep or under extreme stress. This can lead to tooth decay because it strips away the tooth enamel’s outer layer of protection.
• Genetics. Some people have tooth decay issues because of genetics. Common dental problems that can be inherited include deep tooth crevices and enamel issues.
• Age. Some factors that cause age to lead to cavities include recession of gums, years of improper oral hygiene and certain prescription medication that cause dry mouth.
• Irregular dental checkups. Avoiding your dentist can put you at a higher risk of developing tooth decay. Ideally, you should visit the dentist every six months of routine examination and cleaning.
Now that you know what tooth decay can do to your dental and overall health, and what causes it, you should now be more determined prevent them from happening to your pearly whites. For more information about cavities and their causes, schedule an appointment with a reputable dentist in your area now.

About D. Dental:
D. Dental is a top dental services provider in The Colony, TX. Using the latest in dental techniques and equipment, Dr. Ryan Daniel and his team offers a wide range of general and cosmetic dental services to help their patients achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.