As a general rule, tooth decay is a bad thing. But we wouldn’t be doing our jobs if we didn’t explain the reasons behind it further. Today, Boger Dental will answer a question that’s vital to your dental health: What causes tooth decay, and how can I prevent it?
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a prevalent oral health issue characterized by the breakdown of tooth enamel and underlying structures due to acid produced by bacteria in dental plaque. This erosion of the tooth’s hard outer layer can lead to the formation of holes commonly treated with fillings.
Causes of Tooth Decay
There are a number of factors that can encourage tooth decay. These are some of the most common ways that it happens:
- Poor Oral Hygiene and Habits: When brushing and flossing are not performed effectively, plaque can build up on tooth surfaces. If left unaddressed, plaque generates acidic substances that corrode tooth enamel, leading to decay. Poor dental habits, such as irregular dental check-ups, failure to use fluoride toothpaste, and neglecting to replace toothbrushes regularly, can increase decay.
- High Sugar or Carbohydrate Diet: Consuming foods or beverages rich in sugar and carbohydrates, particularly between main meals, provides a breeding ground for oral bacteria to produce acids that corrode tooth enamel.
- Acidic Foods or Drinks: Citrus fruits, sodas, carbonated beverages, and fruit juices can weaken tooth enamel, rendering teeth more susceptible to decay
- Acid Reflux: GERD can expose tooth enamel to stomach acid, a naturally erosive substance, especially affecting the back of the teeth.
- Dry Mouth: Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing mouth acids and remineralizing tooth enamel. Dry mouth, resulting from medications, medical conditions, or mouth breathing, diminishes saliva production, heightening the risk of tooth decay.
- Enamel Defects: Structural flaws or irregularities in tooth enamel, such as enamel hypoplasia or fluorosis, can increase susceptibility to decay.
- Genetics: Certain individuals may inherit a predisposition to tooth decay, influenced by factors like enamel thickness or saliva composition.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like acid reflux, eating disorders, or diabetes can elevate the risk of tooth decay by exposing teeth to acid or disrupting saliva production.
- Age: Aging can bring about oral health changes, including gum recession and reduced saliva production, potentially escalating the risk of tooth decay.
Prevention of Tooth Decay
Now that you’re informed about the causes and risk factors, let’s explore the various proactive measures you can take to prevent decay from becoming an issue.
- Brush Twice a Day: Ensure thorough brushing of your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush. This helps remove plaque and food particles from all tooth surfaces.
- Floss Daily: Make it a habit to floss between your teeth at least once a day to eliminate debris and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, such as between teeth and along the gumline.
- Fluoride is Key: Incorporate fluoride mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine to strengthen enamel and prevent decay, in addition to using fluoride toothpaste.
- Limit Sugar and Acidity: Reduce your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, such as candy, soda, and certain fruits, to minimize enamel erosion and decrease the risk of decay.
- Drink Water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, particularly between meals, to help rinse away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while avoiding frequent snacking, especially on sugary or sticky foods, which can promote plaque formation and decay.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva flow, neutralize acids, remineralize enamel, and remove food particles.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings every six months or more frequently if recommended by your dentist. These visits allow for early detection and treatment of decay, ensuring optimal oral health.
- Consider Other Habits: Be mindful of other habits like tobacco use, teeth clenching, or grinding, as they can negatively impact your dental health.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest advancements in dental care by staying in touch with our team and seeking information and advice when needed.
Defying Decay
Collaborating with our doctors at Boger Dental provides you with top-notch resources to combat tooth decay effectively. Whether you’ve maintained excellent oral health or are striving to improve, our Plymouth office offers exceptional care and treatment options.