There are many causes of tooth decay. It is best to look at the most prominent, or primary, causes of tooth decay. The top 6 causes of tooth decay include:
Sugary Foods
Sugary foods are the best friends of the bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria in your mouth literally feed off sugary foods and then begin to coat your teeth in damaging acid. This can all happen in a matter of seconds and can occur several times over the course of just one meal, which is why it’s recommended to brush your teeth after each meal to eliminate acid. When thinking of sugary foods, you more than likely think of “candy” and things like that, when in fact, there are many foods that contain “hidden sugars.” So be careful and always be on the lookout for hidden sugars. Remember, sugary drinks such as juice are just as damaging to your teeth as soda.
Acidic Foods and Drinks
When most people think of “acidic” they more than likely think of “soda,” when in fact many common foods which people consume daily contain acid. Shockingly, even foods such as fish and bread contain acid. Of course, carbonated beverages such as soda, as well as fruit juice are all acidic agents which cause tooth decay. Unlike the way that bacteria feed off sugary foods so they can coat the teeth in acid, acidic foods and drinks immediately begin to damage tooth enamel with their own acid.
Improper Nutrition
Avoiding foods that are high in sugar, high in carbohydrates and high in acid is the best way to avoid tooth decay due to improper nutrition. Eating a healthy diet, which includes healthy foods and the avoidance of sugary acidic drinks is the way to go.
Tooth Grinding
Many people grind their teeth and do not even realize that they do this. Tooth grinding typically occurs when persons are asleep or when they’re under immense stress. Tooth grinding leads to tooth decay because it strips away the outer layer of tooth enamel. Tooth grinding is preventable with the use of a “bite guard,” also known as a “nightguard,” and with the reduction of stress.
Poor Oral Hygiene Practices
Poor oral hygiene not only includes brushing your teeth regularly, but not flossing regularly, not brushing your tongue, and not using mouth wash. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day – morning and night, but it is ideal to brush after every meal. And remember to brush for at least two minutes. Set a little timer for yourself while you’re brushing to ensure that you brush your teeth for the full two minutes. Improper oral hygiene will ultimately lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay due to poor oral hygiene is avoidable.
Avoiding the Dentist
Avoiding a visit to the dentist is not good for your teeth and will ultimately lead to future tooth decay. If you’re afraid of the dentist, don’t be. The dentist is here to help you. Ideally, you should visit the dentist every six months for routine cleaning and an examination. During the examination at the dentist, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of tooth decay. If signs of tooth decay exist, your dentist will work quickly to treat the issues, as well as providing any preventive measures to avoid future tooth decay altogether.
Admire Dentistry are local, independent Family Dental Clinics located in your area. You will find a very comfortable, gentle and trusting environment here. A comprehensive range of dental treatments are provided. We ensure we can provide you with the best treatment options available by utilizing the latest technology. We proudly take a holistic approach to your treatment needs. We maintain the highest ethical standards toward all our patients and are highly conscious of our environmental footprint. We look forward to meeting and serving your dental needs.