Ever Wondered What Causes Tooth Cavities? Unlock the Mystery

Dental cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are primarily caused by a combination of factors related to the bacteria in the mouth, the type of food consumed, and poor oral hygiene practices. Here are the main reasons for dental cavities:

#toothdecay
Bacteria: Our mouths are home to numerous types of bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus. These bacteria form a sticky film called dental plaque, which adheres to the teeth and feeds on sugars from the foods we eat. As bacteria break down these sugars, they produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, leading to decay.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow dental plaque to build up on the teeth. When plaque is not regularly removed through proper oral hygiene practices, the bacteria can thrive, leading to an increased risk of cavities.

Sugar and Carbohydrate Consumption: Foods and beverages that are high in sugars and carbohydrates provide an ample food source for the bacteria in the mouth. Frequent consumption of sugary snacks, sodas, candies, and even starchy foods like bread and chips can contribute to the development of cavities.
Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, carbonated drinks, and vinegar-based dressings, can erode tooth enamel, making the teeth more susceptible to decay.

Dry Mouth: Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by neutralizing acids and helping to remineralize teeth. When the mouth is dry (a condition known as xerostomia), there is reduced saliva flow, which can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Tooth Anatomy: Certain tooth structures, such as deep pits and fissures, can be more prone to plaque accumulation and are harder to clean effectively. These areas provide a conducive environment for cavities to develop.
Lack of Fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks. Insufficient fluoride exposure, whether through drinking water, toothpaste, or professional treatments, can increase the likelihood of developing cavities.

It's important to note that individual factors, such as genetics, age, overall oral health, and lifestyle choices, can also influence cavity formation. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive sugary and acidic foods are essential for preventing dental cavities.

[sodacurt]

“Cavities can happen, it’s life” you have no idea how comforting that is

[lucheeese]

"Keep in mind that even if you brush, floss and visit your dentist these cavities can happen, it's life"
Great and acknowledging words, we're all build different, people get different amounts of buildup too despite similar routines. I was told I wasn't brushing enough, flossing etc despite brushing flossing dental cleaning etc- reflux and dry mouth and many other things can have a massive effect! So thank you for being inclusive with your words :)

[raghavrashi]

Those high bills hurt the pocket as well. To avoid these circumstances, do follow these rules-
1. Flossing after every meal.
2. Brushing twice a day for 4 minutes everyday.
3. Use mouthwash every night before going to bed.
4. Cut sugar as much possible.

[berliancahyadi]

Genetic of enamel is the no. 1 factor i think. I keep my mouth from many sweet foods/drinks. Rarely consume them. Always brush my teeth twice and regularly. Always using mouthwash after eating. Guess what? My tooth are still decayed. My parents both of them have bad teeth.

In other side, i have a workmate who never brush his teeth in night and often chew hard foods (i saw it when he had lunch) like a beast. I made a request to see all of his tooths and when he opened his mouth i'm shocked to find out that he didn't have any cavity at all. His tooths are still complete and in a good shape.

Luck is still above hardwork. 😥

[michaelcar]

Thank you so much I'm having a lot of work done to my teeth and I would like to understand what they're doing much better this is clear thank you for this

[millplusBaby]

The words I hate, “root canal treatment”. 😂 never had it in my life and don’t plan on it. Take the whole tooth out 😂

[Cowboy_or_cunstuction_worker]

When the dentist is looking at the next payment for his new boat he’s gonna tell you that you have all the problems

[perseveranceofkeisha]

This is upsetting.
Even if I go to the dentist regularly??!! 😮

[johngosden]

Cavities don't just happen. It's from a diet of processed food, sugar, and lack of minerals.

[Son-Of-David]

Ive cleaned out my own molar cavity once with a small drill. That was when i realized i dont have what i need to fill it and had to go to the dentist anyway 😂
He was impressed at how well i cleaned it out.

[kagweallday]

The smell though 😅. Kudos to all dentists 🎉

[WizardOfWor]

Wow. Now this is stuff that we didn’t know about! 😳 😱

[ignitedmotion]

…from the moment I understood the weakness of my teeth, they disgusted me

[kaeosfactory]

I believe the immune system has a play at some of this... I do not have cavities but I can see small pits in my teeth in the molars and it's crazy because I always wondered why ppl with white teeth get them and my teeth are off white and I don't.

[chseylver]

Doing all of that, I rather keep my tooth as long as I can before y'all take a huge chunk out of my mouth just to add a chunk of metal to make a profit.

[anonanon-mxwg]

Istg every 4~5 years I would have tooth aches that is due to small cavities.These damn teeth’s are so darn high maintenance; all the brushing and flossing and listerine gargles, avoiding sweets

[Dario]

Cavities do hurt like a lot and luckly it just required root canal and after the root canal most problems were gone it gets scary when you start experiencing that pain again

[Sannypowa]

This happens because we eat soft cooked food. Our ancestors ate raw

[whyyou]

I have a tiny hole on one of my tooth, IM SCARED!

[deniseadams]

ROOT CONAL? What is a root canal treatment?