Cavities, tooth decay, or dental caries all are the same; it is a common problem across the world. People don’t understand what exactly cavities are. Why do they happen? And mainly how to avoid them while still licking your favorite food, Get ready to fight back. Below we will discuss causes along with prevention for safeguarding your white diamonds.
What Are Cavities?
A cavity is a type of hole in your teeth which develop by damaging your enamel. Tooth enamel is a hard outer layer which protects inside of your teeth from bacteria, acid, and other harmful substances. When the pH level goes below 5.5 can cause tooth decay. When enamel erodes over the period of time, it leads to formation of cavity. Now we will discuss how this erosion happens.
What Causes Cavities?
• Bactria in mouth
Your mouth is full of Bactria some of which are beneficial and others can be harmful. This microscopic villain is fed on sugar and then releases acid that damages your enamel. If you are not checking them regularly the damage gets worse in the form of plaque and tartar. These are their allies.
• Poor Oral Hygiene
Maintaining poor oral hygiene invites Bactria. If don’t brush and floss regularly it indicates you are sure shot invite them along with food particles, generally, they rely on sugar and starches.
• Frequent Sugar and Starch Consumption
Food concentrated with sugar and starch like candy, soda, chips, and baked items are the major contributors to cavities. This type of food helps to produce more acid through Bactria in your mouth. Regularly eating sugary and starchy for creates more opportunities for bacteria which eventually leads to cavities.
• Dry Mouth
Saliva plays an important role in naturalizing your pH level and washing away food particles and Bactria that stuck in your mouth. If you are suffering from dry mouth because of dehydration, medication, or other health conditions and your mouth not producing enough saliva then it is likely to increase the risk of cavity.
• Acidic Drinks
Acidic beverages like coffee, soda, and juice are harmful to enamel over time, even if this doesn’t contain much sugar their acid can weaken the tooth enamel, making it more favorable for cavities. It is advisable to rinse your mouth with water after the intake of such drinks.
• Weak Enamel
Generally, some people are more prone to cavities due to naturally weak enamel. Genetics play an important role in the strength and quality of enamel, due to which some people are more related to early cavities.
How to Fight Back: Defeat the Cavity Invaders!
Brush like a Warrior (Twice a Day!) – Brush your teeth mindfully twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride supports your enamel and makes it hard for acid attacks. Use a soft toothbrush and do it for two minutes to clean all surfaces of your teeth.
Floss daily – flossing removes food and plaque stuck between your teeth, do it regularly because tooth brush can’t do that. It reduces the chances of cavities and gum diseases.
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks – by limiting your sugar intake you can increase health of your teeth, because processed and high sugar contain food invites bacteria and which increases the risk of cavity.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly – From time to time visits to your dentist help to clean your teeth and help to find early signs of cavities before they create the base. Your dentist identifies the areas of demineralization and provides fluoride treatments or sealants to protect your teeth.
Conclusion:
Cavities are a common problem among people, but with the right precautions and habits you can easily prevent it. By maintaining oral hygiene you can protect your teeth life-long, a famous English proverb directly connecting the cavity problem – prevention is always better than cure. Remember to brush and floss regularly, avoid sugary foods, stay hydrated, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.