What causes cavitys?

Answer 1

The primary cause of cavities is bacteria, which all persons have in their mouths. Bacteria feeds on the sugars and carbohydrates in foods and drinks, which sits on the teeth and gums. Gum disease often results especially when a person fails to brush their teeth several times each day. As well, the teeth have many curves and between-the-teeth spaces. Food particles get caught between teeth and at the gum line, which allow perfect breeding grounds for bacteria to multiply. Carbohydrates, such as macaroni or pasta, can coat the teeth with thick tartar, again giving a rich food source for bacteria. Regular brushing cannot remove bacteria from our mouths, but keeps their numbers lower and reduces the debris left on our teeth from food and drinks. Mouthwashes typically contain a combination of alcohol (reason for the burning sensation) and other chemicals and compounds designed to cleanse the teeth and gums and disrupt bacteria's overgrowth. One other factor must be considered: when a tooth begins to have a cavity or a tooth enamel is cracked or broken, bacteria have an "opening" going into the tooth. So cavities "grow" (get bigger); conversely, the sooner a dentist fixes a small cavity, the less likely the cavity will continue to enlarge. However, no matter what type of filling a dentist uses there is still the outer edge of the filling where food debris might get caught or bacteria can get into nooks and crannies. This is how, sometimes, a cavity begins inside the tooth 'behind' a filling. This is another reason that regular dental cleanings and check ups are important.

Answer 2

Cavities are a common dental problem, but this early form of tooth decay may be prevented easily if you brush your teeth and floss properly every day.

And that's not all. Certain factors can increase your risk for developing tooth decay. Not brushing and flossing your teeth to remove plaque is a top risk factor, but keep these others in mind:

• Specific foods and drinks. Foods that cling to your teeth are the most likely to promote tooth decay. All sugars and most cooked starchy foods are major plaque promoters, including milk, honey, raisins, hard candy, dry cereal and bread.
• Frequent snacking. Some diets suggest eating several small meals each day to help lose weight or maintain weight loss. But remember that if you snack frequently, no matter what type of food, the acid in the food has more time to damage your teeth. Here's another tip: Brushing your teeth after eating not only removes plaque, it can also help you stick to your diet by making your mouth feel cleaner so you'll be less likely to snack.
• Bottled water instead of tap. Many people are concerned about the quality of their local tap water, but public water supplies contain fluoride, which promotes oral health by helping to protect tooth enamel from plaque buildup. Check the labels on your bottled water-some have added fluoride. And if you have children, check with your dentist about the correct amount of fluoride that they should get to help control plaque and promote oral health.
• Receding gums. If your gums are receding, plaque can form near the roots of the teeth, which are not protected by tooth enamel and are more vulnerable to decay.