Preventing Tooth Decay: What Are the Top 5 Causes?

Anyone can develop tooth decay at any age. When tooth decay occurs, the tooth erodes, leading to ongoing damage until the dentist fills or removes it. People of all ages need to learn how to care for their teeth to avoid decay. Learning about the causes of decay will also help people protect their teeth.

What Are the Top Five Causes of Tooth Decay?

People can develop tooth decay for multiple reasons. The following are some of the most common reasons people develop decay. One of the most important ways to prevent cavities is to find the best sandy utah dentist. It would be best if you also considered the following factors.

Poor Diets

The food people eat can impact the health of their teeth. Diets full of junk food and sugar feed the nasty bacteria inside the mouth. As the bacteria consume sugars and starches, they produce acids that begin to eat at the teeth. Some of the worst offenders are candies, bread, rice, dried fruits, chips, cookies, and sticky foods. In addition to these foods, people also need to consider the beverages they drink. Sugary sodas, fruit juice, coffee, and tea all wash over the teeth and contribute to tooth decay. Continuous consumption of a poor diet will lead to erosions first and then decay.

Poor Dental Hygiene Habits

Most people know they must brush and floss their teeth daily, but not everyone has good personal hygiene habits. Some people may not brush often enough. Others may brush ineffectively. Acids left on the teeth will eventually break through the protective enamel and enter the teeth, where they cause massive damage that leads to tooth decay. People should brush and floss twice daily to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Chronic Dry Mouth

Many people do not realize their dry mouth condition can lead to decay. Saliva is critical for washing acids away from the teeth and neutralizing them. Saliva also breaks down any lingering food particles in the mouth. Some people need to increase their fluid intake and avoid caffeine consumption. Others may need to see their dentist if the problem advances and increasing fluids does not help the mouth produce more saliva.

Untreated Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions put people at a greater risk of developing tooth decay. Snoring and sleep disorders can cause increased tooth decay. Bruxism also leads to an increased risk of tooth problems. If you have these conditions, seeing the dentist is critical for protecting your smile.

Infrequent Visits to the Dentist

When people of all ages do not see the dentist often, their teeth and gums are in danger. Bi-yearly dental visits will keep people from developing gum disease and tooth decay, which can cause severe illness in the mouth. Children need to begin seeing the dentist as soon as they cut their first tooth. Ongoing visits will keep your smile healthy.

Schedule a Dental Appointment

Going to the dentist and taking care of the above issues will help people take control of their dental health. When cavities begin, they can spread rapidly. Eventually, the decay will impact the gum tissue and lead to rotting roots and loosening teeth.

When was the last time you saw the dentist? If it has been too long, it is time to call and schedule an appointment. Get your teeth cleaned, X-rayed, and examined by the dentist today.