Unfortunately, cavities are common, even among those with an astonishing smile. Cavities are the #1 dental problem at dental offices across the world, and sometimes genetics, among other risk factors, are what determine how susceptible you are to getting them.

Kicking Cavities to the Curb

(Skitterphoto / pixabay)

Why Do Some People Get Cavities Easier Than Others?

Brushing, flossing and mouthwash are the best ways to reduce your chances of getting a cavity. And even if you do these three important practices twice a day, you still need to have professional cleanings every six months to get an even deeper clean and catch cavities early on. A root canal is not ideal for anyone. Here are some specific factors that might contribute to getting cavities:

Genetics

Like we mentioned before, some people are dealt unlucky cards and are just more susceptible to the type of bacteria that causes those dreaded cavities. For these people, it’s extra important to take good care of your teeth, visit the dentist twice a year and stay away from sugary foods and drinks. Dental floss and toothpaste are your best friends if you get cavities easily.

Diet

We all know that an excessive amount of sugary foods, snacks and drinks leads to unhappy teeth. Candy is delicious, but it’s no friend to teeth. The concern is not only the amount of sugar you consume but the frequency as well. If you’re a big sugary snacker throughout the day, your chances of getting cavities will go way up. We recommend brushing throughout the day if you can’t stay away from sugar.

Dry Mouth

Did you know that having a dry mouth can increase your risk of getting cavities? That’s right. Saliva is actually very important in washing away plaque and bacteria and neutralizing tooth decay-causing acids. Those who struggle with chronic dry mouth tend to get more cavities. There are remedies to help with dry mouth such as over-the-counter saliva substitutes, limiting caffeine, switching to sugar-free gum, throwing out mouthwashes that contain alcohol, quitting tobacco and increasing your water intake.

Gum Recession

Receding gums can be a sign that your risk of getting a cavity has increased. When the root of the tooth is exposed, there’s a higher chance of developing bacteria because the root doesn’t have protective enamel on it to fight against cavities. The root of your tooth that is supposed to be covered by your gums, is much softer and more sensitive than the rest of the tooth. If you notice receding gums, it might be a good idea to discuss it with your dentist.

Overcrowding

Overcrowded teeth can be uncomfortable and unhealthy. With nooks and crannies in the teeth, and little space between teeth, plaque has many places to build up and form a cavity. It’s also a bit more difficult to properly floss and brush overcrowded teeth. Talk to your Utah dentist about how to tackle your overcrowded mouth.

Are Cavities More Prevalent in Children or Adults?

  • About 42 percent of children ages 2-11 form a cavity on their primary teeth
  • About 52 percent of adolescents ages 12-19 have dental cavities on their permanent teeth
  • A staggering 92 percent of adults ages 20-65 have had at least one cavity
  • Around 92 percent of seniors aged 65 and older have had dental cavities

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Getting Cavities?

1. See Your Dentist Regularly

Dental appointments should be a regular part of your life. With standard checkups and cleanings, your dentist can determine if you have any risk factors for cavities. If cavities are caught when they’re small, they are much easier to resolve.

2. Take Pride in Your Oral Hygiene

Your teeth are important, so give them the TLC that they deserve. Brush and floss twice a day and invest in mouthwash. Make it a priority and don’t skip a day.

3. Monitor Your Sugar

Eat sugary drinks and foods in moderation. Not only will this help your oral health but it will help your dietary and gut health as well.

4. Use Good Products

Ask your dentist which toothpaste and mouthwash they recommend, because the specific brand can make a huge difference. Stay away from off-brands and stick to the well-known ones. If you suffer from a dry mouth, ask your dentist for recommendations on how to treat it.

No matter what your underlying issue may be for getting cavities, your Weber County dentist has your back. We can treat your cavities and help create a plan to prevent future cavities from forming. Unfortunately, some people do everything right and still get cavities because of their genetics, and that’s why we’re here. We are also here to help you teach good dental habits to your children so they can build a solid foundation for personal dental hygiene. Forming good dental habits at a young age is key for life-long healthy habits. Oral health should be a priority in your everyday life to stop those dreaded cavities from compromising your smile.