Top 5 Causes of Tooth Decay
If you’ve ever suffered from a toothache, you know how much they can hurt. Tooth pain can be so relentless and become so severe you find you can’t work, eat or sleep.
While there are several reasons for tooth pain, many toothaches are caused by simple tooth decay. So just what is it that causes our teeth to decay?
The top five causes include:
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Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Bacteria in our mouths produces lactic acid which damages tooth enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay. Regular brushing and flossing prevents the buildup of plaque, which is a breeding ground for bacteria in the mouth. Less plaque means less bacteria, and less bacteria means less tooth decay.You should brush and floss at least twice each day, and if you can brush after each meal, you should.
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Smoking
Smoking is bad for every single aspect of a person’s health, including oral health. If you smoke, you are at an increased risk for cavities, as are those who are exposed to second-hand smoke.
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Alcohol Use
Dehydration is very damaging to teeth. Alcohol tends to dehydrate you, which decreases the amount of saliva in your mouth, allowing bacteria to cling to your teeth more. Additionally, alcohol has a high sugar content, which accelerates tooth decay.
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Poor Diet
Eating sugar in excess isn’t only bad for your waistline, it’s bad for your teeth as well. Eating candy and drinking sugary drinks invites bacteria to breed in your mouth. The bacteria is able to convert that sugar into waste (lactic acid), which can accelerate tooth decay.
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Fluoride Deficiency
Fluoride is used to help fight and prevent tooth decay, which is why it’s present in many water systems, toothpastes and is available from the dentist as a tooth treatment. Fluoride strengthens enamel and makes teeth stronger against lactic acid.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, need a dental cleaning or are concerned about possible tooth decay, call Eddie Orobitg, DMD to schedule an appointment at 352-702-4147. We’re redefining the dental experience!