Although cavities are very common yet we all often think what is the leading cause of cavities. The leading cause of cavities worldwide is plague. The most common dental problem that affects people of all ages is Cavities.
Although very common, still there are many misconceptions surrounding this dental disease. Let’s explore some of the facts about cavities that will clear all your doubts. Shall we?
What Are Cavities?
Cavities or dental caries are holes in the teeth. These holes are caused by tooth decay. This tooth decay process begins when plaque starts forming on your teeth. As you already know that plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth over time causing tooth decay.
There is a bacterium in plaque that breaks down sugar and starches in food. This bacterium produces an acid that causes enamel to crumble. This is how a cavity is formed.
Bonus:
Cavity or Sensitivity: What Could Your Pain Mean?
Who Is Prone To Cavities?
It is true that some people are more prone to cavities as compared to others. There are many factors that fuel the risk of developing cavities. They include:
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- A poor oral hygiene
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- A sugar and carbohydrate-rich diet
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- Dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions
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- Your Genetics
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- Your Age (children and older adults are more prone to cavities)
The Leading Cause Of Cavities: Poor Oral Hygiene
The most significant cause of cavities is poor oral hygiene. When people fail to brush and floss their teeth regularly, food particles and plaque accumulate on the surface of their teeth, providing a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. These bacteria produce acid, which eats away at the tooth enamel, causing cavities to form. The longer plaque and bacteria are left on teeth, the greater the risk of developing cavities.
Dietary Factors That Contribute To Cavities
One of the most significant factors that contribute to cavity formation is diet. Too much intake of sugary and acidic food can weaken your tooth enamel. This is why it is important It is essential to limit the consumption of sugary and acidic foods.
Other Contributing Factors
Apart from poor dental hygiene, there are also some other factors that contribute to that cause. One prominent one is dry mouth followed by smoking. There are some medications that trigger a dry mouth, thus causing a cavity.
Preventing Cavities
Preventing cavities is not difficult. If you practice good oral hygiene habits you can avoid a big cavity. Try to brush your teeth regularly. Switching to fluoride toothpaste also helps. Star flossing daily if you are not doing it already. Schedule regular visits with a dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Limiting the consumption of foods that trigger cavities is also helpful.
What Are Some Facts About Cavities?
Some facts about cavities are:
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- They are the most common dental problem.
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- Cavities are usually caused by poor oral hygiene.
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- Other factors causing a cavity are consuming a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates and genetic factors.
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- Cavities are preventable
FAQs
How many cavities can you have?
There is no defined number when it comes to the number of cavities a person can have. Since some people are more prone to cavities than others due to different reasons, they can get multiple cavities at once. No matter how many cavities you get, whether they are large cavities or small, it is important to get them treated timely to save yourself from tooth loss.
What happens when you leave a cavity untreated?
When left untreated, it will continue to grow and lead to more problems. Eventually, the decay will reach the tooth nerve. When this happens, you will suffer from an infection in your tooth and feel immense pain. Sometimes, untreated cavities also lead to abscesses. These are pus pockets formed around the root. In severe cases, untreated cavities also lead to tooth loss.
Can you get a cavity between your teeth?
Yes, it is possible to get a cavity between your teeth. They are called interproximal cavities. The plaque builds up between the teeth. It is really difficult to detect this kind of cavity which is why you may need an X-ray to diagnose it.
Does candy cause cavities?
Yes, too much consumption of sugary items leads to a cavity. Candy is a common cause of cavities. However, you can avoid it by brushing your teeth after you consume any sugary item. Cutting down on your sugar intake can also help.
What is the average age of the first cavity?
While there is no defined rule for this, typically the average age of the first cavity is around 17 years old. However, you can experience your first cavity at any age.
Can you get cavities if you don’t eat sugar?
Yes, it is possible to get a cavity even if you don’t eat sugar. This is because cavities can also be caused by plaque. If you don’t maintain good dental hygiene, you can get a cavity irrespective of the fact that you don’t consume sugar.
Are deep grooves in teeth bad?
While deep grooves may not be bad themselves, they certainly increase the risk of a cavity. Deep grooves are very difficult to clean which leads to plaque buildup.
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing cavities. Which is exactly why we are here to serve you. At Sky Smile Dental we conduct a thorough dental exam so that our dental team can detect early signs of tooth decay and treat them before they progress to cavities.
We also provide cleanup services to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that may contribute to tooth decay. Don’t wait until you are thinking “I have 8 cavities, what can I do now?” Call us immediately so we can help you maintain those pearly whites. Let’s Smile Brighter Together.
