Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are one of the most common dental problems that people face. They occur when the hard surface of a tooth becomes damaged due to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. In this article, we'll discuss how cavities form, their causes, and most importantly, how you can prevent them from occurring.
What Causes Cavities? Cavities form when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from the foods you eat. These bacteria produce acids that break down tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. Over time, this acid erosion leads to the formation of a hole, or cavity, in the tooth.
Several factors contribute to cavity formation:
Diet: Consuming sugary foods and drinks gives bacteria the fuel they need to produce acids. Sticky foods like candy and dried fruit are particularly harmful because they cling to your teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque-a sticky film of bacteria-to build up on your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Dry Mouth: Saliva helps to wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth. A lack of saliva, which can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions, can increase your risk of developing cavities.
Tooth Anatomy: Some people have naturally deep grooves or pits in their teeth that are harder to clean, making it easier for plaque to build up and cavities to form.
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What Causes Cavities?
Cavities form when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from the foods you eat. These bacteria produce acids that break down tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. Over time, this acid erosion leads to the formation of a hole, or cavity, in the tooth.
Several factors contribute to cavity formation:
Diet: Consuming sugary foods and drinks gives bacteria the fuel they need to produce acids. Sticky foods like candy and dried fruit are particularly harmful because they cling to your teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque-a sticky film of bacteria-to build up on your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Dry Mouth: Saliva helps to wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth. A lack of saliva, which can be caused by certain medications or medical conditions, can increase your risk of developing cavities.
Tooth Anatomy: Some people have naturally deep grooves or pits in their teeth that are harder to clean, making it easier for plaque to build up and cavities to form.