Top 8 Causes of Tooth Decay

Here at Northwest Family Dental, we are strong advocates of families having strong teeth and great smiles. One of the biggest problems of oral hygiene is tooth decay. In fact, cavities are the second most common disease in the US, second to common colds.

Learn more about  the most prevalent causes of tooth decay to watch out for.

• Sugar Intake — Bacteria thrives in sugary foods, and the more you consume and let sugar settle in and coat your teeth, the higher the chances of developing cavities in no time.
• Poor Oral Hygiene — It is not enough to remember brushing your teeth once in a while; it needs to be consistent and thorough. You also need to floss everyday, brush your tongue, and regularly use mouth wash.
• Lack of Fluoride — Fluoride helps your teeth build resistance against acid and plaque, not to mention it also makes them whiter. You can ask your dentist on recommended tooth paste brands rich in fluoride.
• Dry Mouth — Saliva is vital in washing away small pieces of food or sugars in our mouth. In many cases, too much exercise can cause this because of excessively breathing through the mouth.
• Medication or Medical Treatments — Certain diseases can cause dry mouth, weaker gums and teeth.
• Stress — Anxiety and stress can take a toll on your physical health, especially on your immune system and proper hygiene habits.
• Smoking — It is no secret that cigarettes are rich not only in nicotine, but also in tar, which can strongly contribute to teeth decay and staining.
• Tooth Grinding — People who grind their teeth out of stress, habit, or during sleep are more likely to have broken or worn out tooth enamel, which makes them more vulnerable to cavities.

If you or your loved ones feel or see signs of developing cavities, it is best to have them addressed as soon as possible as they can cause further pain, infection, gum disease, or loss of teeth.

If you need to have a dental concern treated right away, call us now and schedule an appointment here at Northwest Family Dental. Thank you and have a good day!