Dental caries is the medical term for teeth decay; it occurs when the bacteria in your mouth begin to make acid that eats into your teeth. Left untreated, this can result in extreme pain, infection and loss of teeth as well.
The main factors that favor dental caries
- Poor oral hygiene
This is one of the commonest causes of dental decay and results from not brushing your teeth with regularity, not using mouthwash, flossing or not brushing your tongue. It’s important that you brush your teeth at least twice each day – at morning and at night for at least two minutes; however, it’s best to brush your teeth after every meal.
- Enamel issues and deep tooth crevices
Those with enamel issues ordeep teeth crevices are highly likely to face tooth caries problems. This is because crevices allow the bacteria and plaque to easily build-up in your mouth. Your dentist may recommend dental sealants; these are generally used to prevent tooth caries in patients with very deep tooth crevices. The sealant is only safe in uninfected teeth and helps in the prevention of tooth caries.
- Improper Nutrition
One of the best ways of avoidingtooth caries due to poor nutrition is to avoid foods that are high in acids, carbohydrates and sugar. Eating a healthy diet, that includes healthy foods and avoiding sugary fizzy drinks is one way of keeping dental decay away.
- Sugary Foods
The bacteria in your mouth thrive on sugary foods and over time they start to coat your teeth in acid that damages your teeth. This can happen in just a matter of seconds or can occur several times during the course of just a single meal. This is why your dentistwill recommend that you to brush your teeth post each meal to eliminate the acids.
- Acidic foods and drinks
Whenpeople think of “acidic” drinks they are more likely to think of sodas and similar beverages. However, even foods such as bread and fish contain acids and these foods and fizzy drinks instantaneously begin to damage the tooth enamel.
- Dry mouth issues
Saliva naturally inhibitsthe buildup of plaque in your mouth and individuals with dry mouth conditions are more likely to have dental issues that lead to dental caries. A dry mouth may be a result of genetics, medication or even medical conditions such as diabetes. Your dentist will be able to identify this problem and will work closely with you to help prevent tooth caries related to dry mouth problems.
- Tooth grinding
Many people don’t realize that they grind their teeth. This generally occurs when they are under a large amount of stress or when they are asleep. Tooth grinding results in tooth decay because it strips away the tooth enamel’s outer layer. The condition can be reduced by finding ways of reducing stress and wearing a “night guard” or “bite guard”.
- Genetics
Some people suffer from genetics-related tooth caries problems; enamel issues and tooth crevices can be inherited which result in cavities.
- Age
Age-related tooth caries problems are also very common. These could be caused by common prescription medications that result in dry mouth, gum recession or even improper oral hygiene.
In case of tooth decay, go to a dentist without delay. Visiting your dentist for regular checkups is one of the best ways to identify the early stages of dental caries and nip them in the bud.
If you want to know more about dental cariesand how to prevent it or need information on the dental procedures we offer, don’t hesitate to contact our dentistat Alpha Seaforth Dental Clinic. You can reach us through this form or give us a call at (514) 934-0404.