What Causes Cavities and Tooth Decay? And How to Avoid it.

Tooth decay is a common problem that leads to discomfort, pain, and even tooth loss. This issue is largely preventable, so take heart, even if you are cavity-prone. Regular care of your teeth and a healthy diet will go a long way to fending off tooth decay.

Causes of Cavities and Tooth Decay

The beginning stages of cavity formation involve plaque accumulation on your teeth. There are many strains of naturally occurring bacteria that live in our mouths. Some of these strains thrive when you consume foods and drinks that contain sugar. The bacteria feed on the sugar and then produce acids. If the sugars are not cleaned off your teeth, the acids combine with the bacteria, saliva, and food particles to form a film of plaque over your teeth.

Once plaque forms, its acids will wear away the tooth’s enamel. These small openings in the tooth enamel are the beginning of a cavity or tooth decay. If allowed to go unchecked, the bacteria and acid will attack the inner layer of tooth material called dentin. Dentin is softer than the enamel that covers the outside of a tooth. The decay can spread through dentin faster and more easily than through enamel. As the bacteria and acids continue through the dentin, they will reach the pulp. The pulp is at the tooth’s center and contains blood and nerves.

If decay reaches this part of the tooth, you will experience sensitivity, toothaches, and pain upon biting. This is an advanced stage of tooth decay. The pulp will become irritated, and the bone surrounding the tooth can be affected. Your body will respond to the infection in the pulp, and you may develop an abscess along the gums under the tooth. If this happen,s a root canal will likely become necessary.

How to Avoid Cavities and Tooth Decay

When it comes to dental health, the old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is very true. Preventing decay from starting in the first place will keep you from the pain and expense of an involved dental procedure. Even if a cavity is detected, if it is treated early and quickly, the decay can be stopped in its tracks, and again, costly and painful tooth problems can be avoided.

Being consistent and diligent in good oral care will go a long way towards preventing cavities. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing every day. If you can’t brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water. Even chewing sugar-free gum can help clear out some of the sugars in your mouth. Eating a healthy diet low in sugary foods and beverages is essential for maintaining healthy teeth. You should see a dentist twice a year for a cleaning and exam. This is vital in detecting decay early, so it can be stopped and addressed before it becomes a significant problem. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact your dentist at Primary Dental in Denver, Colorado, as soon as possible. Remember, most dental problems are preventable, especially tooth decay. It is worth the time and effort it takes to prevent cavities.