Prone To Cavities? Find Out Why From Your Dentist In Plano, TX

You brush and floss twice a day, every day – but no matter what you do, every time you see your dentist in Plano, TX you end up with a cavity. Why are you more prone to this dental problem that other people? And, what can you do about it? The team at Dental Renaissance explain the reasons why some patients are more susceptible to cavities, and offer strategies to get ahead of the problem in this post

Why Am I Prone To Cavities?

Dr. Christopher Pollard and Dr. Bhavita Patel know there are many reasons why some people they treat deal with cavities more than others. You could be at increased risk for the following reasons:

• High Sugar, High Carb Diet – What you eat matters. Since your teeth come in direct contact with sweets that cause enamel damage, it’s best to limit foods high in sugar and carbs. Stay away from sweetened beverages like sodas, fruit juices, and energy drinks – these bathe your teeth in sugar with every sip.
• Dry Mouth – Saliva not only makes swallowing easier, it’s important because it remineralizes your teeth. Due to genetics or health conditions like diabetes, some people don’t have enough of this essential dental lubricant to protect teeth. Having a dry mouth can cause cavities.
• Tooth Shape – Some people have teeth that are irregularly shaped or that have deep crevices that are perfect for catching food particles. When food hangs around in these areas, it combines with oral bacteria to create acid that erodes your enamel and causes cavities. This is why most cavities show up in the molars that are in the back of your mouth.
• Ethnicity – Research shows that African Americans are at greater risk for cavities due to a genetic variant. This is because the saliva in this population lacks an essential protein that protects against bacteria in the mouth. Without this protein, germs thrive and eat through tooth enamel, producing dental caries (cavities).
• GERD – Eating a diet that’s filled with acidic foods, or having acid reflux disorder or frequent vomiting, can wear out your teeth and make them more prone to cavities.

What Can I Do If I’m At Risk For Cavities?

Dr. Pollard and Dr. Patel advise their patients who are prone to cavities to use the strategies below to increase oral health:

• 2×2 – If you don’t already, brush gently twice a day for two minutes and floss while you’re at it. Proper oral care at home is crucial to preventing cavities.
• Eat Right – Cut out sugar in all its forms, and stick to low-carb treats and veggies. Enjoy water as your beverage of choice, and say cheese, since this dairy product increases the remineralizing power of your saliva.
• Sugarless Gum – Brushing after lunch is not an option for many people. Instead, chew sugar-free gum with Xylitol, since this sweetener helps prevent cavities.
• Mouthrinses for Dry Mouth – If you have dry mouth from heredity, a health condition, or from taking certain medications, try over-the-counter mouthrinses that keep your mouth hydrated or talk with your emergency dentist in Plano, TX about prescription treatments.
• See Your Dentist – If you’re prone to cavities, you should visit your dentist at least twice a year, if not more frequently. Preventive care can mean the difference between saving your smile or losing your teeth.

Now that you know why you’re so prone to cavities and what you can do about it, schedule your appointment with the team at Dental Renaissance – they’ll keep your teeth cavity-free!