4 Factors That May Be Putting You at a Higher Risk of Cavities

While no two smiles are exactly the same, an overwhelming number of them share a common issue: tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an astonishing 90% of American adults have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. However, some people are more prone to tooth decay than others. Read on as your local Dallas dentist reveals four factors than may be putting your smile at a higher risk and what you can do about it.

1.) Your Snacking Habits

It’s common knowledge that eating too many sugary snacks leads to cavities. What many people don’t realize is that snacking throughout the day can also significantly raise your risk of tooth decay.  The more often you eat, the more fuel you provide for cavity-causing oral bacteria. Even healthy foods like fruits can lead to tooth decay if you snack on them regularly.

Do your best to limit your eating to mealtimes. If you do choose to indulge in occasional snacking, drink plenty of water afterwards and consider picking low-sugar options like cheese, almonds, and broccoli.

2.) Your Oral Bacteria

Every mouth is naturally brimming with a unique combination of oral bacteria. Some of these microbes react more aggressively to sugar than others. These bacteria produce more destructive acids that quickly burn through the enamel on your teeth to cause cavities.

To keep over-aggressive bacteria in check, it’s important to regularly practice excellent oral hygiene. Your daily dental routine should include two minutes of brushing for twice a day, flossing all your teeth daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash often.

3.) Your Gum Health

Your gum health plays a significant role in the wellbeing of the rest of your mouth. If your gums are infected or damaged, they may pull away from your teeth. This exposes their roots, which are vulnerable to cavities.

You’ll need to work with your dentist to discover what’s causing your gum recession and choose the most effective treatment. Reducing your risk of cavities and restoring your gum health may be as simple as using a toothbrush with softer bristles, or you may need a treatment like gum disease therapy.

4.) Your Natural Tooth Shape

If your teeth have deep grooves or are uniquely shaped, they may get cavities more frequently. The small, hard to clean spaces they create can easily trap food particles, plaque, and bacteria. This debris will accumulate over time and eventually eat away at your enamel.

Regular dental checkups with your dentist are a great way to keep these tough to reach areas clean. Depending on your unique tooth shape, your dentist may suggest specialized treatments like sealants, fluoride applications, or dental crowns to fortify your smile against tooth decay.

If you get a lot of cavities, you may be more prone to tooth decay than others. Your dentist can help you determine which factors may be putting you at a higher risk and what you can do to get back to enjoying your happy, healthy, and cavity-free smile!

About the Author

At Kessler Park Dental in Dallas, TX, we would much rather help you prevent dental problems than fix them after they’ve developed. Dr. Jayme Martinez encourages all his patients to come in for routine dental checkups and cleanings at least twice a year. This lets him spot and stop any oral health issues like cavities as early as possible, which saves his patients money, damage, and discomfort in the long run. If you are concerned that you may be cavity prone, don’t hesitate to contact him via his website or at (214) 303-9969.