What Can Make a Tooth Susceptible to Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is something that everyone has to deal with at one point or another in life. It is the act of the teeth literally deteriorating as a result of cavities. Tooth decay can be difficult to prevent, but having an understanding of what makes someone more susceptible to it can be helpful. Continue reading to find out more!

What makes teeth susceptible to decay?

Outlined below are a few things that make the teeth at risk of decaying. This information should be reviewed because it can be helpful in keeping tooth decay away.

Poor oral hygiene

The number-one thing that makes a tooth susceptible to decay is poor oral hygiene. Many people do not understand the real importance of what it means to keep the teeth and oral cavity clean.

Everyday oral hygiene should never be skipped because it can result in a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can lead to tooth decay. A disciplined routine should include brushing twice a day or after every meal, flossing at least once daily, and rinsing with a gentle mouthwash or saltwater regularly. Each of these steps will help ensure that the teeth remain in healthy condition. 

Certain foods and beverages

Other contributing factors that make the teeth susceptible to decay are the food and beverages that are consumed on a regular basis. Foods that are high in sugar or acid can break down the strength of the enamel, especially if any remnants are not cleaned off. Additionally, almost all beverages contain high levels of sugar, which can turn into bacteria that eat away at the enamel, resulting in tooth decay. 

While it may be unrealistic to completely eliminate sugary and acidic foods and beverages, a good rule of thumb to follow is rinsing afterward. Using water to wash away any remnants will not prevent tooth decay, but it will help cleanse the teeth until they can be brushed. 

Other things to know

In some cases, tooth decay is inevitable. Even those with the best oral hygiene routines can suffer from tooth decay from time to time. Some pre-existing health conditions can make the teeth susceptible to decay, which may be unavoidable. Many digestive problems can cause vomiting to occur, which cab leads to tooth decay due to the vomit's acidic nature. Additionally, some individuals have genetic conditions that make their teeth more susceptible to decay, which is uncontrollable. With these scenarios, it is recommended to visit the dentist frequently so certain measures can be taken to limit tooth decay. 

Find out more

When suffering from tooth decay, it is best to visit the dentist. They can evaluate the teeth to determine if there are any additional contributing factors that may require preventive measures. Also, any questions or concerns that the patient has can be appropriately addressed. To learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today! 

Request an appointment here: https://gkdentaloffice.com or call GK Dental PC at (617) 826-6075 for an appointment in our Everett office.

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