7 reasons why cavities can develop even with proper dental care

Dentist David Mitola explained why cavities can occur even if you take good care of your teeth and what can be done to reduce the risk.

Genetics

Genes associated with cavities often play a role in enamel formation, saliva production, or immune response. Genetics can also partially determine the type of bacteria living in your mouth, which can make you susceptible to cavities and gum disease.

Gum recession

If you have noticed that your gum line has been receding recently, you likely have gum recession. This condition occurs when the gums recede below the enamel layer, exposing the root surface of the teeth.

Gum recession can cause dental health problems because the root surfaces of the teeth are thinner and contain fewer minerals than enamel, making them more vulnerable to cavity formation.

According to a dentist, factors such as periodontal disease, poorly fitted dental prosthetics, and tobacco use can increase the chances of gum recession.

You grind your teeth

Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, is a common habit that can negatively impact oral health.

The pressure exerted on the teeth during grinding can cause cracks in existing fillings and the teeth themselves.

Poor nutrition

Regular brushing and flossing positively affect teeth, but poor nutrition often leads to the development of cavities.

Sugary foods, such as juices, sports drinks, soda, candy, and cereals, can contribute to cavity formation.

If you frequently consume foods high in acid, such as soda, it can lead to tooth erosion, causing enamel breakdown.

Dry mouth

People with chronic dry mouth may be at a higher risk of developing cavities because they do not produce enough saliva.

Since dry mouth is often a side effect of another health-related issue, it is important to consult a doctor who can help identify the underlying cause.

To ease the discomfort of dry mouth, you can use alcohol-free mouth rinses and lozenges that help keep your mouth moist.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the mouth. This acid can erode your tooth enamel and cause damage.

Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for oral health, as it supports the mineralization and strength of teeth.

However, if you have a vitamin D deficiency, your teeth do not receive the necessary nutrients to remain strong and healthy. This can lead to poor mineralization, enamel defects, and subsequent tooth damage.

Earlier, we reported on the common mistakes everyone makes when using mouthwash.

We also wrote about methods that can help whiten teeth safely.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.