When you think about tooth decay, you may not realize all it entails. Tooth decay is typically thought of and associated with cavities. While that is accurate, tooth decay is so much more and can lead to so many bigger issues with your oral health. To fully understand tooth decay and its causes, it is important to understand the basics.
The basics of tooth decay is as it seems. The decaying process of a tooth. When this occurs, cavities are formed, causing holes in the teeth. These holes can result in toothaches and pains. If left untreated, the decay and cavities can pick up food particles and other debris and create issues such as tooth loss and infection. It is important to note that tooth decay can be rectified with fillings and caps if treated with urgency. Consequently, to avoid tooth decay and cavities it is important to understand the causes of tooth decay so that they can be evaded.
One of the foremost causes of tooth decay is the mixture of bacteria and food debris in your mouth. Bacteria in your mouth constantly form plaque. Plaque is a film that is on the teeth, that can be removed by brushing. If it is untouched, it builds up, and acids from the bacteria will start to erode the enamel of tooth, which is a proponent of decay.
Typically, and widely known, a major cause of cavities and tooth decay is eating foods high in sugar. If sugar is left on the teeth and not brushed away and flossed, the sugar speeds up the bacteria creation. If any food stays trapped in your mouth for long periods of time – not brushing twice a day for weeks on end, the higher your chances of having your teeth decay in time.
To avoid tooth decay, as much as possible, it is important that you take care of your oral hygiene. It is imperative to brush your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly will remove any food that may have been trapped between the teeth. Also, having your dental checkups will further benefit your oral health.
Tooth decay happens on occasion, and cavities will form, but these issues are fixable and preventable. It is important to remember to always seek dental help if you start to have aching pains in your mouth, that seem abnormal. It is easier to fix a cavity than it would be to fix a lost tooth, so always schedule appointments with your dentist.
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