CAVITIES-AND-TOOTH-DECAY

Cavities and Tooth Decay: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Everyone knows that cavities aren’t good for your oral health. But what causes cavities in the first place? Knowing the causes of cavities will help you work to prevent them.

The Causes of Cavities

Understanding what causes cavities is the first step to good oral health. The formation of cavities is a process that takes several steps. First, when you eat or drink, food particles and carbohydrates linger on your teeth and are digested by the bacteria in your mouth and in accumulated plaque. These bacteria then create acids which can eat away at the enamel on your teeth causing mineral loss and eventually a cavity. (1)

Preventing What Causes Cavities

Now that you know what causes cavities, how do you prevent them? Preventing cavities can be easy when you maintain a good oral hygiene routine of brushing, flossing and rinsing each and every day. You should also visit a dentist regularly, preferably at least twice a year. Professional cleanings will help remove plaque and tartar in a more comprehensive way than you can perform yourself at home. Knowing what causes cavities is the first step to keeping your mouth in good health. By taking steps to prevent cavities, you will help keep your teeth and mouth in great condition.

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