What Causes Tooth Decay? Understanding the Root of the Problem
Ever wonder what leads to tooth decay?
It’s not just about indulging in sweets or skipping brushing occasionally. Cavities are prevalent and can happen to anyone of any age.
They range from the foods you consume regularly to oral hygiene and your genetic make-up. Therefore, knowing these causes of tooth decay is essential for maintaining good dental health.
The Process Behind Tooth Decay: It’s More Than Just Cavities
Fundamentally, tooth decay is a process through which the outermost protective layer in the tooth, the enamel, demineralises. This usually starts when plaque—a sticky layer of bacteria—accumulates on the teeth’s surface.
The bacteria found in plaque can draw their energy from the sugar content of the food and drinks you take, and in the process, break down your enamel using acid. It ultimately results in the formation of a small hole or cavity appearing on the exterior region of your teeth.
But it doesn’t stop there. Bad news: After encountering the outer layer called enamel, the second layer, known as dentin of the tooth, is destroyed, and if untreated, it moves to the nerves and the blood supply of your tooth, called the pulp.
Pain is associated with the severity of the decay, and the later the stage of its development, the more difficult it is to treat.
Causes of Tooth Decay
Here’s a closer look at the major contributors:
#1. Diet High in Sugars and Carbohydrates
One of the most common causes of tooth decay is sugar.
The bacteria, which love foods and drinks full of sugar, swarm over such meals and beverages. They absorb these sugars and expel acids that erode the teeth’s surface or enamel.
But wait, there is more than cookie jars and soft drinks you should be concerned with. Carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, and crackers, also convert into sugars, which bacteria in the mouth then act on.
#2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Failing to brush and floss regularly is like giving bacteria in your mouth an open invitation to wreak havoc.
If it is not disturbed, it forms tartar, which is very difficult to remove and can cause gum disease.
When one fails to brush teeth or floss, a sticky film called plaque and tartar forms a good breeding ground for decay.
#3. Lack of Fluoride
This naturally occurring mineral assists work as a buffer, improving the enamel’s resistance to abrasive assault by acids.
If your toothpaste or drinking water doesn’t contain fluoride, or if you’re not using fluoride treatments, your teeth may be more susceptible to decay.
#4. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva is crucial in dentition since it assists in washing off food particles and regulating the acid levels in the mouth.
Medicines, some medical conditions, or even a dry mouth because of a lack of water intake can put your teeth in more danger of whether or not they are to decay or not. They get to the teeth and cause damage due to poor saliva production since the acids and bacteria can stick around for much longer.
#5. Frequent Snacking
Eating constantly throughout the day or drinking soda increases the number of acidic invasions on your teeth. Anything that contains sugar or starch raises the bacterial count, and your mouth becomes more acidic for about 20 minutes.
When you eat, this acid attacks your teeth, and, unlike the commercials, they don’t get a break: they keep being eroded by it.
#6. Genetics
It is astonishing, nonetheless, that your family history can also put you at risk for developing tooth decay.
Certain people, by default of their teeth’s characteristics, will always have softer enamel, making them more susceptible to cavities.
Some people may have misaligned teeth or teeth of different shapes and sizes. Particularities of tooth placement make cleaning challenging, resulting in an increased probability of tooth decay.
#7. Worn Dental Work
If you have old fillings, crowns, or other dental work, they can wear down over time, creating small spaces where bacteria can sneak in.
This means returning to your dental surgeon for a check-up, essential to ensure that whatever has been done is healthy and not causing decay.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay: Protecting Your Smile
Tooth decay might sound scary, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable. You can keep your teeth strong and healthy by taking simple steps in your daily routine.
#1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Brush your teeth at least two times daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. While flossing reaches the difficult-to-reach spaces between your teeth where plaque can lurk, brushing eliminates plaque off the surface of your teeth.
#2. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Eat and drink less sugary foods and beverages, and avoid sipping on sugary beverages throughout the day. When you indulge, drink water afterwards to help rinse away some of the sugars and acids.
#3. Stay Hydrated
Throughout the day, sip on lots of water, particularly if you’re prone to dry mouth. Water keeps your mouth hydrated and removes microorganisms and food particles.
#4. Use Fluoride
Fluoride is one of your best defences against tooth decay. Ensure your toothpaste contains fluoride, and talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments if you’re at higher risk for decay.
#5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine teeth cleanings and check-ups are essential for detecting early deterioration and maintaining good teeth. Your Cabramatta dentist can spot early signs of decay and give your teeth the professional cleaning they need to stay healthy.
Take Control of Your Oral Health
Tooth decay doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of life. Understanding the root causes and making a few changes to your routine can protect your teeth and keep decay at bay.
Whether improving your brushing habits, cutting back on sugary snacks, or getting regular dental check-ups, every step makes a difference.
Tooth Decay Treatment in Cabramatta
If you’re concerned about tooth decay or think you might have a cavity, don’t wait until it gets worse.
Schedule an appointment with your Cabramatta dentist today to take control of your oral health.
At Cabramatta Dental Care, we care for our patients with gentleness and attention to detail.
Contact (02) 9755 5300 or book an online appointment.
Visit us at 47 Arthur St in Cabramatta.
It’s never too late to start making better choices for your smile!