What Causes Tooth Decay?
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dental caries, more popularly known as tooth decay, are some of the most common chronic diseases in both kids and adults. This is despite the fact that it is a preventable condition.
But what exactly causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay is caused by a diverse number of factors. Here lists the most common causes below.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you do a poor job of cleaning your teeth, you become more vulnerable to getting tooth decay.
How do you take good care of your teeth and gums? Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes and remember to clean your tongue as well.
Enamel Issues and Deep Tooth Crevices
If you have either of the two, or both, you are highly likely to get tooth decay. This is because the bacteria and plaque in your mouth have room to grow.
To counter this problem, ask your dentist about dental sealants.
Poor Nutrition
If your diet consists of lots of food which are rich in sugar, carbohydrates and acid, you may face tooth decay sooner or later.
Try your best to keep these foods to a minimum and replace these with healthier fare.
Dry Mouth
The saliva in your mouth helps keep the bacterial population inside in check. However, if you are a diabetic, if you are taking medications that affect saliva protection, or if you have a genetic condition, your mouth may become dry and leave you at risk of tooth decay.
Bruxism
Bruxism or teeth grinding while sleeping wears away the teeth’s enamel. This leaves your teeth vulnerable to the attack of the bacteria in your mouth.
Keep bruxism in check by wearing a night or bite guard. You may also consider practicing relaxation techniques.
Genetics
Some people are, simply put, more vulnerable to tooth decay because of the genes they inherited from their parents.
Age
Tooth decay can become prevalent during old age. However, age may be just one part of a larger equation. Other age-related factors that may come into play include medications which dry the mouth, poor oral hygiene, and recession of gums.
Not Seeing Your Dentist
Good oral hygiene can only do so much for your teeth and gums. You also need to visit your dentist regularly to help keep your mouth healthy.
Regular visits to your dentist allows you to get your teeth professionally cleaned. These checkups are also a good way for you and your dentist to keep potential problems like tooth decay in check.