Tooth decay has many different causes that are worth being wary of if you want to preserve your smile. Below are 7 things that commonly lead to decay and how to protect yourself against these causes.
Consuming too much sugar
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you are more likely to end up with cavities. How does sugar decay teeth? Bacteria in our mouth feeds on sugar and this bacteria rapidly multiplies, while producing acids that corrode our enamel. Sugary drinks are some of the biggest offenders because they coat our teeth with sugar. Drinking through a straw can prevent teeth being exposed to sugar. Choosing sugar-free alternatives can also protect our teeth.
Smoking
Smokers are also more likely to experience tooth decay. Tar and nicotine in cigarettes can stain our teeth and turn them yellow. However, this isn’t what causes decay. Smoking increases dry mouth, which increases bacteria growth. It also increases the risk of gum disease. The solution: quit smoking.
Heavy drinking
You may also end up making more trips to the dentist if you are a heavy drinker. This is because alcoholic drinks often contain acids and sugars that can wear away at our teeth. On top of this, heavy drinking can leave us with a dry mouth. Watching how much you drink can help you to keep your teeth healthy. It’s also worth noting that some alcohol drinks are worse than others – spirits with soda drink mixers are typically the worst.
Dry mouth
While smoking and heavy drinking can cause a dry mouth, some people are naturally prone to this condition. Producing saliva is key to keeping our mouth clean. If you often have a dry mouth, bacteria will thrive and this will lead to tooth decay. Don’t hesitate to see a doctor if you suffer from a dry mouth – a doctor can check for underlying conditions and recommend solutions.
Overcrowded teeth
Having overcrowded teeth makes it harder to carry out thorough cleaning. As a result, tooth decay is more common in people who have overcrowding. It is recommended that you see an orthodontist if you have overcrowded teeth – tooth removal and braces could help to make cleaning your teeth easier.
Chipped teeth
A chipped tooth caused by an injury could potentially allow bacteria to enter inside your teeth. This could lead to the pulp becoming infected – leading to toothache and potentially requiring root canal treatment. Protect yourself against chipped teeth by wearing a gumshield during contact sports and not using your teeth as a tool. If you experience a chip, see a dentist – bonding or a crown will help to seal the chipped area and prevent bacteria getting in.
Poor dental hygiene
The most obvious cause of dental decay is poor dental hygiene. If you’re not thoroughly brushing your teeth morning and night, you are at increased risk of dental issues. Don’t skimp on cleaning your teeth and invest in regular dental check-ups (professional cleaning can be carried out on spots you miss with the help of a hygienist).
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