Although most adults develop cavities & tooth decay at some point in their lives, it is important to know that children are also susceptible to tooth decay. The habits developed at an early age can prevent a lot of oral health issues later in life.
According to the American Dental Hygienists Association, approximately 78 percent of children will have a cavity by age 17.
Studies show that these young children are more likely to suffer from cavities & tooth decay than their adult counterparts. This is often due to poor oral hygiene and high-sugar diets. To prevent cavities in the future, you should visit a dentist regularly and learn about the signs, symptoms, and causes of cavities.
Tooth decay is caused by the presence of bacteria in the mouth. Some of these bacteria help digest food and are harmless, while others are harmful to the teeth and are culprits of causing tooth decay.
Following are 5 of the scariest statistics about tooth decay and cavities
- The most common bacteria known to cause tooth decay is streptococcus mutans, which secretes acid that attacks tooth enamel and leaves the teeth vulnerable to decay.
- More than 700 bacterial species or phylotypes, of which over 50% have not been cultivated, have been detected in the oral cavity.
- Fluoride is considered safe and effective to strengthen tooth enamel when used in small doses, however, too much fluoride may cause serious health issues. The most common health risk associated with fluoride overuse is dental flora, a condition that can result in permanent tooth decay.
- Untreated cavities can lead to abscesses under the gums that can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious health risk.
- Cavities & tooth decay are two of the most common untreated health issues in the United States, especially among lower-income families.
By using preventative measures, you can keep your mouth free of cavities & tooth decay
If you are an adult with a history of cavities, you should take steps to prevent them from becoming a bigger problem. Eating disorders and medical conditions, such as acid reflux, are both known to lead to cavities. While these conditions may seem unrelated to dental health, they both involve the acidic content in the stomach. These acids contribute to erosion and damage of the tooth’s enamel.
Both adults and children should brush their teeth before going to bed, as sleeping for long periods with food on them will allow the bacteria to grow. If you are prone to cavities & tooth decay, you should also consider getting a fluoride treatment or using a bacteria-killing mouthwash. Additionally, floss your teeth at least twice a day and drink plenty of water.
If your child has developed cavities, it is important to teach good oral hygiene habits and limit sugary foods, especially at night.
Even if you don’t feel any sensitivity from a cavity, you should still visit your dentist as soon as possible. Delay in visiting the dentist can lead to cavities and tooth decay. Without treatment, cavities can become irreversible. The best way to prevent cavities is to have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist regularly. It’s important to follow your oral hygiene routine, as it is crucial to protect your teeth from acidic substances.
Mohip Dental & Associates has the best dental hygienists and state-of-the-art facilities. Accepting new patients, we take care of both adults and children. Schedule your annual checkup and cleaning. We understand that choosing a good family dentist can be challenging. Mohip Dental & Associates is here to make your experience as easy and painless as possible. Dental care in Wellington Florida.
