What Are The Leading Causes Of Cavities In Your Teeth?

Posted on 2/6/2023 by Dr. Nick Raptou

Tooth decay can occur even in people who we consider committed brushers. It is uncommon for even highly disciplined brushers to spend their entire lives without experiencing at least one or several pesky cavities. Since you are likely to have these oral problems or you have already had to deal with them in the past, it is paramount that you know what causes them and what it feels like to have these oral issues.

What Causes Cavities?

Bacteria in the mouth are the main culprit for cavities. When the bacteria feed on food debris, they produce acids that wear down the enamel, leading to sensitivity, pain, infection, and eventually tooth loss, if not checked.

How Cavities Form

Plaque, the sticky biofilm constantly forming over the teeth provides a breeding ground for bacteria. When you consume things that cling to the teeth, particularly starches, sugars, and carbohydrates, they combine with the bacterial plaque to form acids. These acids begin to act on the enamel, wearing it down eventually. As the enamel wears down, your teeth lose the minerals within the protective surfaces. Due to the stickiness of oral plaque, it allows acids to keep in contact with the teeth, hence acting more on the enamel surface. Once the enamel weakens and is destroyed, a cavity forms.

Preventing Cavities is Key

If you don't prevent cavities from developing, you risk suffering many consequences. You could lose the teeth, forcing you to get teeth replacement procedures like denture or implant placement. Cavities may also result in pulp infection, which would mean undergoing expensive root canal treatment and crown placement.

You can prevent cavities by observing oral hygiene and visiting a dentist. Brush two times and floss once daily. See our dentist to get prophylaxis cleanings to stamp out the stubborn tartar and plaque in the mouth. Visit us today and learn about cavities or get treatment.

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