5 Surprising Causes of Tooth Decay and How to Combat Them

Tooth decay, which is also known as cavities, occurs when the acid from plaque damages the tooth enamel, creating holes. This deterioration of enamel leads to tooth decay and surprisingly, it can affect anyone, from young children to the elderly. Cavities are a common but preventable oral health concern that is usually attributed to poor oral hygiene and high sugar consumption.

However, there are lesser-known factors that contribute to decay, which often go unnoticed. In this blog post, Genesis Dental Esthetics aims to illuminate these unexpected culprits and equip you with practical strategies to combat them, ensuring a vibrant and appealing smile.However, there are lesser-known factors that contribute to decay, which often go unnoticed. In this blog post, Genesis Dental Esthetics aims to illuminate these unexpected culprits and equip you with practical strategies to combat them, ensuring a vibrant and appealing smile.

1. The pH Puzzle: Acidic Foods and Beverages

Our modern diets are filled with acidity: sodas, citrus fruits, and even seemingly innocuous sparkling water. The issue isn’t the acid's taste or the carbonation’s charm; it’s how these low pH levels in your mouth drop, temporarily softening your enamel. Repeated exposure can lead to permanent damage and the onset of cavities.

Protecting Your Teeth Against Acids

• Moderation is Key: Reduce your consumption of acidic foods and beverages, and when you do indulge, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
• Calcium-Rich Foods: Incorporate dairy products or calcium supplements into your diet. Calcium helps neutralize acid and contributes to the remineralization of enamel.
• Chewing Sugarless Gum: This can increase saliva production, which helps to wash away acids naturally.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to Genesis Dental Esthetics in Pasadena can help to identify and treat decay early, preventing the need for large cavities.

2. Mouth Breather's Dilemma: Dry Mouth and Decay

Mouth breathing during sleep or congestion is not only bothersome, but it can also cause significant dental problems. When we breathe through our mouths, the environment in our mouth becomes dry, which results in less saliva production. Saliva is essential for our oral health as it helps to neutralize acid, remineralize enamel, and remove food particles that can cause cavities. A dry mouth caused by mouth breathing can also increase the risk of gum disease.

Combatting Dry Mouth

• Stay Hydrated: Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and help with saliva production.
• Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter saliva substitutes or stimulants can aid in moisturizing the mouth. Additionally, using a saline nasal spray or over-the-counter decongestants can clear up congestion and reduce the need for mouth breathing.
• Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder involves pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. If you face chronic mouth breathing, it's crucial to schedule regular cleanings and check-ups with our dentists, Dr. Ted Baghdasarian. Contact the Genesis Dental Esthetics team in Pasadena for an appointment today.

3. Time and Tide: Delayed Brushing and Acid Impact

Surprisingly, the timing of our daily oral hygiene routines can make a significant difference in cavity prevention. Many people don’t realize that after consumingimmediately brushing acidic foods can actually worsen the damage. This is because acids temporarily soften enamel, making it more vulnerable to abrasive brushing. Waiting at least a half-hour between eating or drinking and brushing allows enamel to reharden, reducing the risk of erosion.

4. E-Cigarettes and Vaping

E-cigarettes and vaping have been marketed as safer alternatives to traditional smoking. However, the chemicals in e-liquids can lead to the development of plaque on teeth and the initiation of gum disease, contributing to tooth decay.

4. E-Cigarettes and Vaping

• Regular Dental Visits: Familiarize yourself with the particular hazards of e-cigarettes and inform our dentists, Dr. Ted Baghdasarian, about your usage.
• Oral Hygiene Routine: Regular brushing, flossing, and using a tongue scraper can help control the impact of e-cigarette use on oral health.
• Vitamin C: Boosting your intake of vitamin C can support gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease. Foods such as oranges, kiwis, and strawberries are great sources of vitamin C.

5. Biting Fingernails

Biting fingernails is a common habit that can lead to tooth decay. The repeated chipping and cracking of nails against teeth can wear away enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. This habit also exposes the mouth to bacteria from the hands and nails, which can turn into acid, further damaging enamel and causing cavities. It's important to be aware of how harmful nail biting can be for your dental health.

To prevent tooth decay effectively, it's vital to understand lesser-known factors. Besides regular brushing and flossing, making mindful dietary choices and steering clear of habits like nail-biting and e-cigarette use play a crucial role. Prioritizing routine check-ups at Genesis Dental Esthetics can help avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and associated issues, recognizing the importance of a healthy smile for overall well-being. For personalized dental strategies, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ted Baghdasarian Remember, investing in oral health protection pays off in the long run.