Why Do I Get So Many Cavities?

Most people develop at least one cavity during their lifetime. It usually first happens as a child. Kids are more prone to tooth decay than adults because they are typically less diligent about keeping their teeth clean. As we get older we understand the consequences of our actions, but cavities in adults are not uncommon.

How do you get cavities?

It is well known that consistent tooth brushing with a fluoride paste twice a day and flossing will ward off cavities. But, do you understand what actually causes cavities? It has a lot to do with several contributing factors, including the following:

Why do I keep getting cavities?

• Sugary foods and starches:

  Tooth decay starts when too bacteria are present. These tiny organisms feed on sugars and starches that accumulate on surfaces in the mouth. Bacteria produce acid that breaks down and destroys tooth enamel. It is responsible for the formation of plaque that forms on teeth, blanketing the surface with more acid, causing further erosion. The process of enamel destruction begins when sugar-laden foods are taken in and particles are left behind for bacteria to feed on. Every time the bacteria ingests sugar, acid is produced. This troublesome cycle occurs numerous times throughout the course of one meal. Therefore, the way you eat has a tremendous impact on whether or not tooth decay will start to develop. When it comes to persevering your teeth, it is better to eat a whole bar of chocolate instead of nursing a lollipop or chewing on a sticky chunk of taffy

• Highly acidic foods:

  Foods like citric fruits and soda are common causes of cavities when people indulge in them regularly. Diet soda is just as destructive as the sugary version. In fact, acidic foods can be more harmful than sugary foods because they are so corrosive. Carbonated drinks, juices, coffee and other foods cause tooth erosion by destroying the enamel. It can be too difficult, and unreasonable to omit all acidic foods from your diet. Many healthy choices are highly acidic, like some vegetables and fruit. It is important to snack wisely and avoid acid foods before bed. Saliva in the mouth works hard to neutralize harmful acids and saliva production declines as we sleep. Also, acidic foods soften enamel immediately, so wait a half hour after eating these treats to brush your teeth. If you don’t tooth enamel can be damaged very easily. Rinse with water or a fluoride wash.
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• Poordental hygiene:

  If acids and sugars sit on tooth surfaces for too long, bacteria and acid in the mouth have more time to cause irreparable damage to the enamel. Brush twice daily and once a day flossing, along with routine dental visits is typically enough to keep cavities away.

Are some people prone to cavities?

• Faulty genetics:

  It has recently been discovered that genetics do play a part in the density of a person’s enamel. That explains why some people who take great care of their teeth still end up with tooth decay, and other slack off, and still maintain great oral health. There has also been shown to be a genetic predisposition to periodontal disease and gingivitis.