Why Are You Still Getting Cavities?
If you brush and floss your teeth religiously, it can be frustrating to find out you have cavities. Here are a few things to consider if you aren't sure why you are still getting cavities.
You May be Eating Too Many Carbs
Although you may avoid soda and Halloween candy, keep in mind that plaque that causes decay can be brought on by all sorts of foods. Carbohydrates like cereal, milk, rice, and bread are starches that still contain sugar. The bacteria in your oral cavity can live off these foods, thus causing acidic byproducts and plaque that can break down your enamel.
You May Be Brushing Too Hard or Too Long
While you may use a soft-bristled brush, consider how hard and how long you are brushing your teeth. According to WebMD, you don't need to brush for very long—you only need a couple of minutes of gentle brushing motions. If you brush too hard or too long, you could actually wear down enamel and cause gum recession. Receding gum tissue can lead to gum pockets that can fill up with bacteria.
You Have Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea
At night, if you have trouble breathing through your nose or have sleep apnea, you could be breathing through your mouth. When your mouth is open, it's easier to develop dry mouth and have decreased saliva flow. Saliva is important because it neutralizes acids in your mouth. When your mouth is overly dry, it's easier for oral bacteria to thrive. While sleep apnea mainly affects your energy levels, it can also increase the risk of tooth decay.
You Are Grinding Your Teeth
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can cause cavities. This could be a habit you may involuntarily do while you sleep. However, some people grind their teeth during the daytime if they're stressed. If your jaw aches often and/or you get lots headaches, you may suffer from bruxism. People with bruxism may have worn cusps on their molars and premolars. Your dentist may also notice small fractures, decay, or receding gum tissue if you have bruxism.
If you grind your teeth during the day, do self-checks and make sure you aren't clenching your jaw. You may want to get physical therapy or massage therapy to help you relax these muscles. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist to set you up with a customized mouthguard.
Get in touch with dental service providers in your area so that you can put an end to cavities!
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