Cavities happen to virtually everyone at some point in their life. In the past, people believed that tooth cavities only happened in children. But research has shown that even adults get tooth decay. Fortunately, there are simple steps that you can take to prevent cavities. The first and most effective way to prevent cavities is to understand what causes them. That way, you will be able to take the necessary measures to ensure your teeth remain healthy and strong.
Causes
The truth of the matter is that cavities arise from tooth decay, which is a process deterioration that involves several stages. It begins when harmful bacteria start to damage the outer surface of your tooth called enamel. If this damage is left unchecked, it spreads to the tooth’s inner parts and causes even more severe damage. So, to prevent this from happening, you need to avoid the formation of plaque in your mouth. This plaque is caused by naturally occurring strains of bacteria. The buildup is usually exacerbated when you consume certain foods or drinks, especially the ones with high sugar levels.
When you consume sugary foods and drinks, you need to brush your teeth thoroughly to clean your sugar completely. Otherwise, the bacteria will feed on it and produce acid that mixes up with saliva, food particles, and bacteria to create plaque. This is a gluey, acidic layer that forms on the teeth. The acid in the plaque then eats away at the enamel, leaving the inner and most delicate parts of your tooth exposed. The harmful microbes enter your tooth through this opening and start to destroy the softer layer of the tooth called dentin. If left unchecked, these microbes will continue to wear away the tooth until they get to the innermost layer called the pulp.
Cavity Signs & Treatment
You will begin to experience a toothache, jaw pain, and sensitivity at this stage, mostly when you bite something. It may also affect the bone supporting the tooth. At this point, your body will start releasing white blood cells to fight off the bacteria, which results in a tooth abscess. When this happens, the only effective remedy will be a root canal. The good news is that all these problems can easily be avoided by maintaining proper oral health. Regular oral care is also an essential step in preventing cavities. This involves simple tasks such as brushing and flossing your teeth properly and consistently.