What Are The Factors That Increase Your Risk Of Cavities?
Everyone who still has their set of natural teeth still has a risk of getting cavities. However, there are some known factors that can increase the risk of getting cavities:
- Tooth location. Tooth decay is most prevalent in the molars and the back teeth. These teeth are hard to get to with most toothbrushes and they also have more surface area for food particle to get stuck in.
- Foods and drinks. Sticky foods and drinks tend to cling to the teeth where they can rot through the enamel and rot out the teeth much more quickly than regular food and drinks can.
- Frequent snacking. Bushing after each meal is good but if you are snacking on sweet foods and drinking sweet beverages all day long you are constantly bathing your teeth in sugar!
- Bedtime infant feeding. As soon as a baby starts cutting teeth they are at risk for cavities and the single biggest increase the risk of getting cavities in infants is sweet juices at bedtime- water is always best.
- Improper brushing. If you are not brushing as often as you should or you are not brushing correctly, your teeth will be more at risk for cavities and some pretty bad ones too!
- Age risks. In the United States, those who tend to have the most cavities are those who are not able to brush and take care of their teeth as they should – the very old or the very young.
- Dry mouth. If you have a medical condition or are on medicines that cause medication, you are more at risk for cavities because saliva actually helps keep teeth clean and fights bacteria growth.
- Old dental devices. Dental implants, treatments, and devices have improved over the years and older materials and implants may actually be causing more harm than good to your teeth.
- Acid Reflux. Acid from the stomach can cause serious erosion to the teeth which increases the risk of getting cavities at any age; the best solution is to reduce instances of heartburn and reflux.
- Eating disorders. Individuals who suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia often have very poor dental health due to the health effects of their particular disorder.
There are many things that can increase your risk for cavities but there are also many things you can do to keep your teeth as healthy as possible- and working with our skilled and experienced dental team here at Comfort Care Family Dental is a great place to start! Call us today to set up your consultation appointment!
Comfort Care Family Dental P.C.
1001 E Chicago Ave #143, Naperville, IL 60540
(630) 369-0111
https://www.comfortcaredentists.com
