What Causes Cavities?

Cavities Causes

 

How does Cavity form ?

Have you noticed a little hole in the tooth and wondered “where did that come from?” You may have a cavity in your tooth which is producing these symptoms. According to the dentist it begins when bacteria inflicts damage on the hard surface of the teeth.

Cavities can occur in people of all ages. Cavities occur when the enamel, the outer layer of tooth structure, is destroyed. This destruction occurs when the bacteria containing plaque, which constantly resides on your teeth, is fed sugar from various foods and drinks and forms harmful acids. These acids destroy tooth enamel and leave teeth susceptible to decay. This decay then forms a hole in the tooth, known as a cavity.

Causes of Cavities
  1. Acidic Drinks and Foods and: The decay forming bacteria becomes even more powerful in causing cavities, because of the acid present in the drinks and foods.
  2. Poor Oral Hygiene: The enamel will start to wear down, If plaque isn’t removed from the tooth because the sugar and the acidity in the foods and drinks will constantly attack it. That’s why its is very important to develop good brushing and flossing habits.
  3. Lack of Fluoride: Fluoride helps in protecting your teeth from acids and helps to restore tooth enamel and also tooth decay.
  4. Dry Mouth: Your saliva also helps to protect your teeth, it helps teeth mouth moist and protect teeth from decay by acting as a buffer towards acidic drinks and food in the mouth. It also helps to wash away food debris and sugar. A dry mouth lacks the saliva and fails to do these necessary things, resulting in the formation of cavities.
How Do You Prevent a Cavity?
  1. Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing twice a day is essential in protecting your teeth from cavities and dental problems. Daily oral hygiene will keep your teeth free of food debris and remove the harmful plague and sugars.
  2. Regular Checkups: Regular dental checkup is very important, you should visit your dentist for regular cleaning and oral exams twice a year.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Always keep yourself hydrated, water helps to stimulate your salivary flow which helps to prevent acid in the mouth and keep your mouth from being drying up. And also Avoid Sugary/Acidic Foods and Drinks.