Learning More About Tooth Decay and How to Prevent It
Hello, I'm Dr. Jacobs. Today, we're going to discuss something that affects everyone at some point: tooth decay. What causes it, how can you prevent it, and what should you do if it sneaks up on you? Let's keep your smile healthy, strong, and cavity-free.
What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay can be categorized as the erosion of the enamel, the outer covering of your tooth, which results in a hole forming in your tooth. Anything that creates a hole in your tooth, other than trauma, is considered decay. It's mostly caused by bacteria. Everybody's mouth has bacteria—mine does, yours does. These bacteria, unfortunately, are alive and like anything that's alive, they excrete waste in your mouth. That waste is very acidic. This acid in your mouth eats away at the enamel and forms a lesion, a hole in your tooth, and that's what tooth decay is.
How can you prevent tooth decay?
One way to prevent tooth decay is to understand that saliva is a natural tooth decay fighter. Saliva has a neutral pH and will neutralize the acid that these bacteria create. Throughout the day, say you have lunch and eat a sandwich, you might see food in your mouth. If you don't brush and check again two hours later, the food might be gone. How does that happen? Your saliva plays an important role. It cleanses away food debris and neutralizes the acid produced by bacteria. Saliva is very important.
What happens in your mouth at night?
When you go to sleep at night, your saliva stops producing. Otherwise, you would have a soaking wet pillow and might choke and gag all night. Have you ever seen someone asleep with drool? That's saliva that was in their mouth before they fell asleep. Once you fall asleep, saliva production stops. If you have a snack before bed and don't brush or floss, the bacteria have eight hours, sometimes more, to consume the food and produce acid. This acid sits in your mouth without being neutralized by saliva, eroding your enamel. Morning breath is the result of this accumulation of bacterial waste. That's what you taste and smell in the morning.
What is the most important thing you can do for your dental health?
The most important thing you can do is brush and floss at night before bed.
How does age affect saliva?
As we get older, the volume of saliva decreases and its pH changes. Certain medications, such as antidepressants and high blood pressure medicines, can dehydrate you, reducing saliva volume and increasing cavity risk. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can result from aging, medications, or radiation treatment that affects salivary glands. Once you have xerostomia, cavities are more likely to occur.
What can you do to prevent cavities?
You can do several things to prevent cavities. Brushing and flossing are crucial. Fluoride is also important. While there is controversy about ingestible fluoride, topical fluorides applied in a dental office are effective at preventing cavities. Avoid ingesting fluoride, but it helps prevent cavities when used properly. If decay reaches the dentin, which is right beneath the enamel and about 2 to 3 millimeters thick, the lesion will progress. The dentin contains fluid-filled tubules, and once decay reaches it, professional treatment is necessary.
Tooth decay is common, but it's preventable with good habits and regular dental care. Brushing, flossing, and routine checkups can go a long way in keeping your smile healthy. (951) 904-3164. Your teeth will thank you. See you soon.