What Causes Cavities and How to Prevent Them

Cavities can be devastating, but there are ways to prevent them and make them go away. One way to prevent them is to practice regular brushing and flossing. These two actions can prevent plaque buildup. And a dentist can recommend products that help you take care of your teeth properly. Whether you have a history of cavities or not, you should schedule regular dental checkups.

Cavities are caused by bacteria living in the mouth. These bacteria feed on sugar and acid in the mouth, which causes tooth decay. Fortunately, you can prevent cavities by practicing good oral hygiene and limiting your intake of sugary, acidic foods. A dentist will be able to identify early signs of decay before they lead to pain and more serious dental problems.

Certain medical conditions can also increase your risk of cavities. Diabetes, acid reflux, and some treatments for other diseases can all weaken tooth enamel. If you have a history of these conditions, speak with your dentist and get a plan to prevent cavities. Good dental care can help prevent cavities in both children and adults.

The acids from bacteria that live in plaque attack the enamel of your teeth. These acids cause tiny holes in the enamel. These openings allow the acid and bacteria to get to the dentin, the inner portion of the tooth. This damage causes tooth sensitivity and pain when chewing. There are two main types of bacteria that normally cause cavities. One is lactobacillus acidophilus, which lives in the pits of the teeth. Another is streptococcus, which attacks the side of the teeth. It can be difficult to detect these cavities visually, and x-rays are best used to diagnose them.

Cavities are common, and nearly 91% of adults over the age of 20 will experience them at some point. These are not healthy and can cause permanent damage to your teeth, but they can be avoided with proper care. It is always best to seek out a dentist to prevent cavities from occurring. You can start by educating yourself on how to prevent them.

Poor oral hygiene is another factor in developing cavities. A lack of flossing and brushing can leave food particles in your teeth overnight. As these particles get trapped in the pits of your teeth, they begin to decay overnight. When these cavities start to form, they can grow quickly. This is especially true when you don’t practice good oral hygiene. Bacteria found in our mouths can combine with the food particles to damage the tooth.

It’s important to practice good oral health for your children, so they can avoid cavities and other dental problems. A regular dental checkup will include a thorough examination of your child’s teeth and jaw, as well as x-rays of your child’s teeth. Children should also be taught to brush their teeth by their parents. The amount of toothpaste a child needs is dependent on their age. Children under three should brush with a trace amount of toothpaste. After age two, children should start flossing. In addition to brushing their teeth, children should also avoid sugary snacks.