Tooth decay and cavities are among the most common health problems in the world. In fact, more than 90% of adults have had at least one cavity. A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth and can lead to toothache, tooth sensitivity, and black or white discoloration of teeth. Cavities start small but can grow larger if left untreated. The infection can extend to the gums, roots, and jawbone and in the worst cases, tooth decay and gum disease can lead to bone loss. Unfortunately, some people are more prone to tooth decay than others. Several different factors cause cavities such as genetics and diet but at TD Dental Group we notice that the top 3 causes among our patients are poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, and avoiding the dentist.
1. Poor Dental Hygiene
Dental health is an important part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Every time you eat, your teeth get stuck with food particles that eventually become plaque. If plaque is not removed, it combines with bacteria to produce acid, which gradually leads to tooth decay.
The shape and position of the teeth are important factors that influence dental hygiene. Crooked teeth are harder to clean because it is harder to remove food or sticky plaque from them. Crowded teeth are harder to floss and provide extra particles for bacteria to form plaque. If you have misalignment issues consider cosmetic procedures like Invisalign or veneers to avoid tooth decay.
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment. The sooner you start practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and limiting sugar intake the easier it will be to avoid cavities and other long-term health problems.
2. Dry Mouth
When we do not produce enough saliva, oral health problems can arise. Saliva is essential for maintaining our oral health, as it flushes away bacteria and food particles, neutralizing the acidity of our mouths. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, occurs when the salivary glands are unable to produce enough saliva. In some cases, dry mouth is caused by dehydration and can be remedied by drinking more water, especially before bed. In other cases, dry mouth is caused by a chronic condition or certain medications. For these more severe cases, many doctors recommend saliva stimulants, mouthwash designed for xerostomia, and speaking to your doctor about changing your medication. It is important to treat a dry mouth, as if left untreated it can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, discoloration, and even tooth loss.
3. Avoiding Dental Visits
Going to the dentist is never a waste of time. Even if you have a white and painless smile you should still visit your dentist regularly because cavities can be prevented with early diagnoses. We recommend you visit your dentist every six months unless your dentist advises more frequent visits due to oral health complications. During your visit, our dentist will clean your teeth of tartar and plaque, floss your teeth to remove debris, and examine your smile for signs of any damaging dental issues. If a larger cavity is detected during your visit, TD Dental Group offers a wide range of restorative treatments that can return your natural smile such as tooth-colored fillings and root canal therapy.
If you live in the Bonita Springs, FL area and are experiencing tooth pain, tooth discoloration, or even tooth loss consider TD Dental Group. We are proud to offer various cosmetic treatments and other services such as dental implants, bridges and crowns, general dentistry, and more. Call 239-317-8333 to make an appointment today.
