We trust that you know what it takes to have a strong dental hygiene routine: You brush your teeth twice per day, floss once per day, and visit your dentist biannually. And yet, you still struggle with cavities. What’s going on?! Unfortunately, even with solid habits, it’s possible to face dental issues like tooth decay. While brushing and flossing is essential for healthy gums and teeth, it’s not the only determinant of your oral health.
In today’s blog post, let’s consider five reasons why cavities occur even if you take good care of teeth.
1. Your diet is to blame.
A poor diet often leads to dental decay, no matter how often you brush and floss your teeth. Chances are, you know that sugary foods, like sodas, juices, candy, and cereals, contribute to cavities. While you don’t need to avoid these foods altogether, you should limit your consumption of them and try to clean your teeth shortly after eating them.
Other foods may increase your chance of developing tooth decay too. For instance, highly-acidic foods, like sodas and tomato sauce, cause the breakdown of enamel and lead to tooth erosion. Sticky foods, like peanut butter or dried fruit, get stuck on the chewing surface of your teeth and increase the likelihood of developing cavities. Lastly, starchy foods, like pasta and white bread, break down into sugar when combined with the bacteria in your mouth.
2. You’re prone to cavities, thanks to genetics.
Do cavities run in your family? If so, DNA might be to thank for your dental problems. While your dental care regimen and diet significantly contribute to your oral health, research suggests that genetics also play a role. More specifically, the genes associated with cavities are most commonly involved with enamel formation, immune response, and/or saliva production.
Genetics also partly determine the type of bacteria that live in your mouth and make you more or less susceptible to gum disease and — you guessed it — cavities. The role of genes in dental health is not fully understood, but hopefully, future research will lead to better prevention and treatment options.
3. You grind your teeth.
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common habit that can damage your teeth, causing fractures in fillings and even the teeth themselves. These tiny cracks, then, make the teeth more prone to cavities. Fortunately, sleeping in a night guard can minimize the negative effects of bruxism.
4. You have gum recession.
This condition occurs when your gums recede below your tooth enamel, exposing the root surface of your teeth. The root surface is thinner than enamel, making it more vulnerable to decay and cavities. Tobacco use, ill-fitting dentures, teeth grinding, and periodontal disease can increase your chances of gum recession.
5. You suffer from dry mouth.
If you struggle with chronic dry mouth, you don’t produce enough saliva, which naturally rinses off your teeth. This means you may be at an increased risk for tooth decay. Dry mouth is often an indication of another health issue, so it’s important to talk to your dentist or doctor about possible causes.
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your dental care!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like your family’s dental routine, dental anxiety, and more.