Cavities, often known as tooth decay, are one of the most frequent chronic illnesses in the United States. Eighty percent of Americans will have had at least one cavity by the age of 34. Cavities form when tooth enamel deteriorates owing to acid produced by bacteria that gathers on teeth. When you eat and drink sugary and carbohydrate-rich meals, the bacteria on your teeth make more acid.
Untreated cavities can cause issues with eating, drinking, and speaking, as well as a serious infection behind your gums. However, numerous myths have emerged over the years regarding what causes cavities and how to best avoid them. Here is a list of six myths about cavities that should be addressed ASAP.
1. Cavities are only caused by sugar
Sugary foods and beverages are a major contributor to cavities. Dentists have long advised patients to limit their soda, candy, and other sweets intake. Sugary meals, however, are not the main cause of cavities. Carbohydrate-rich meals and beverages, such as bread, spaghetti, crackers, and many types of chips, can all contribute to cavities.
Another condition that might contribute to cavities is dry mouth. Saliva includes bicarbonate, calcium, and phosphate, which aid in the restoration of dental enamel and the neutralization of plaque acidity. Certain drugs, such as decongestants and antihistamines, can provoke dry mouth and a decrease in saliva production.
2. Toothbrushing is enough to prevent cavities
Brushing your teeth isn't enough to keep your mouth healthy. At least once a day, floss and rinse your mouth with mouthwash. Flossing, in particular, eliminates germs and dental plaque from between your teeth. If you don't floss, you might get gingivitis or periodontitis, which is the primary cause of tooth loss in the United States. To avoid cavities, root canals, and other costly treatments, maintain a dental hygiene program that includes brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash.
3. Only kids can develop cavities
Adults can also develop cavities. Tooth decay can occur at any age due to sugary beverages, poor dental hygiene, and even heredity. Poor eating habits, like munching all day and drinking soda all the time, do not help.
Unfortunately, the danger of developing cavities persists from the moment the first tooth emerges until the final tooth falls out. However, with fluoridation of municipal water systems and generally improved dental health, Americans' mouths may be in the greatest shape they've ever been in.
4. Tooth decay always causes a toothache
Cavities do not often have obvious signs, so you may not feel any discomfort until the decay has progressed. As the hollow grows larger, you will most likely suffer from pain and sensitivity to heat and cold. Regular dental checkups and dental x-rays are essential for detecting and treating early tooth decay.
5. Cavities can’t reoccur in the treated tooth
The filling procedure begins with the dentist removing decay and then filling the cavity with a filling substance. As a result, many people believe that after the decay has been eliminated and replaced by a filling, they no longer need to be concerned about that tooth.
While the deterioration at that specific location is prevented following treatment, regular dental hygiene is still required. Not only may the rest of your teeth develop cavities, but decay can also form near to or surrounding the tooth filling.
6. Cavities in baby teeth can be left untreated
Some people believe that cavities in baby teeth aren't a huge concern because kids will eventually grow an adult set. Cavities in baby teeth, on the other hand, can be a major issue. Tooth decay not only increases the risk of infection in kids, but it can also create long-term difficulties with their permanent teeth.
If a baby tooth is lost due to decay, the adult tooth may shift and begin to develop in the wrong spot. The easiest way to avoid this is to begin teaching your children basic oral hygiene habits at a young age.