Cavities occur when bacteria accumulate around the teeth' surface. These bacteria will then feed on sugary food particles, making your mouth more acidic. The acid attacks the tooth enamel, creating holes and cavities. If left untreated, cavities (caries) lead to pain, infections, gum disease, and tooth loss. Due to the dangers of having cavities, many people fear that they might be at risk of getting this oral issue. Everyone with natural teeth can get cavities. However, other factors increase the possibility of getting caries. They include:
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is a great risk factor for cavities. A dry mouth increases the chances of food particles and bacteria accumulating on the teeth. This creates a good place for cavities to form. However, a moist mouth protects your teeth and removes food debris and bacteria. In addition, saliva helps to balance the mouth's PH, preventing unhealthy bacteria growth. You can have a dry mouth from habits such as alcohol and tobacco use and snoring and breathing with your mouth.
Some health conditions, such as thrust, stroke, and diabetes, can also contribute to a dry mouth. While you can treat a dry mouth by drinking a lot of water and avoiding alcohol and tobacco, consulting a dentist is a good way to keep your mouth healthy. A professional can recommend medication or procedures that enhance saliva production.
Diet
The food and drinks you consume can also increase the risk of cavities. For instance, sticky foods can easily cling between the teeth. If not removed, bacteria can turn them into acids that destroy the enamel. In addition, acidic foods and beverages weaken the tooth enamel, making you susceptible to acids. In this case, you should consume healthy items such as dairy products and vegetables. Besides, eating crunchy vegetables helps in saliva production. This keeps the mouth clean, hence, preventing build-ups. Book an appointment with our dentists today to determine your risk of developing cavities.
Dentist Hillsboro, OR | Dental Blog - Century Dental Hillsboro, OR Jefferson Call, DMD and Dix Densley, DDS believe that the better informed their patients are, the better their decisions about dental care can be. With this blog, they hope to inform and empower our readers in their oral health. - See more Century Dental, 2831 SE Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123 ^ (971) 708-1608 ^ centurydentalllc.com ^ 12/4/2024 ^ Page Terms:Dentist Hillsboro OR
Cavities occur when bacteria accumulate around the teeth' surface. These bacteria will then feed on sugary food particles, making your mouth more acidic. The acid attacks the tooth enamel, creating holes and cavities. If left untreated, cavities (caries) lead to pain, infections, gum disease, and tooth loss. Due to the dangers of having cavities, many people fear that they might be at risk of getting this oral issue. Everyone with natural teeth can get cavities. However, other factors increase the possibility of getting caries. They include: