How Do Cavities Develop?
- Human mouths are crawling with hundreds of different strains of bacteria.
- Some are helpful and maintain good health, while others are not.
- Certain bacteria process the sugars in food and release acid as a bi-product.
- Although minor tooth decay can be naturally reversed by your body, Drs. Bommarito, Cascioli, Zariczniak and our team at Stonehill Dental will tell you that eventually the acid wears away the enamel and creates small holes in the surface of teeth.
Adult Cavity Prevention
Some people are naturally more disposed to developing cavities than others. However, making a few lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce your possibility of developing cavities.
- Food – Eating fresh fruits and vegetables increases saliva production, and reduces cavity risk. It is also important to avoid sticky foods. Candy, cookies, and chips should be avoided.
- Drinks – Most people know that drinking cola contributes to cavities. However, fruit juices and energy drinks also contain large amounts of sugar. Whenever possible, replace these sugary beverages with tea or water, which rinses your mouth and prevent decay.
- Fluoridated water. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring chemical that facilitates enamel growth. Most municipal water supplies are fortified with fluoride, so drinking tap water is a great way to keep teeth healthy. People with well water may use fluoridated toothpaste or other supplemental forms of fluoride to decrease cavity risk.
- Brush teeth and floss frequently. Gently brushing teeth several times a day removes the harmful bacteria that cause cavities to develop. If possible, brush your teeth after each meal or when drinking sugary beverages. Flossing regularly removes small particles that get trapped between teeth, which further decreases tooth decay.
- One of the most important steps in cavity prevention is visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Consistent dental exams ensure that cavities are caught early, before they cause major damage to your teeth.
