Do you know why teeth decay in adults? It can happen for a number of reasons, and if you’re not taking care of your oral health, you could be at risk for tooth decay. Tooth decay can be a serious problem, and it’s important to know how to prevent it. Here are the top three reasons why teeth decay in adults:
Poor oral hygiene:
Many adults think that they are too old to have to worry about their teeth decaying. If you do not brush and floss regularly, or if you have not been to the dentist in a while, it can put you at a higher risk for tooth decay. This is why, poor oral hygiene is a common cause of tooth decay in adults. Brushing and flossing regularly can help to remove plaque, which is a sticky film that contains bacteria. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. This can lead to gum disease, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to help prevent tooth decay.
It is also important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. They will be able to remove tartar and plaque that you may have missed and can also detect any early signs of tooth decay. This is important because catching tooth decay early can help to prevent it from becoming a more serious problem.
Diet:
There are many reasons why teeth decay in adults. One of the most common reasons is diet. When you consume sugary or acidic food, the bacteria in your mouth break down the sugars and produce acids. These acids eat away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities. Cavities are holes in your teeth that can become infected. If you have a cavity, it’s important to see your dentist so they can treat it otherwise it could lead to tooth loss.
Aside from sugary or acidic food, eating a lot of starchy food can also lead to tooth decay. The starch turns into sugar, which then feeds the cavity-causing bacteria. This allows plaque to build up on your teeth, which can damage your tooth enamel and lead to cavities. When choosing what to eat, it’s important to focus on foods that are high in calcium and phosphate. These minerals can help to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities. For example, you can include dairy products, meat, poultry, nuts, and seeds in your diet. You should also avoid snacking too often as this can also lead to cavities.
However, if you do want to snack, make sure to choose healthy options like fruits and vegetables. You can also opt for sugar-free gum to help clean your teeth and prevent cavities. Consult your dentist from KL if you have more concerns. Your dentist will be able to give you more specific dietary advice based on your oral health since not everyone is the same. For example, some people may benefit from using an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque. But others may not need to use one and a manual toothbrush will suffice.
Smoking
One of the most common reasons why teeth decay in adults is smoking. Tobacco use can cause a build-up of plaque and tartar on teeth, as well as staining and discoloration. Besides tooth decay, it can also lead to gum disease, which is a serious condition that can result in tooth loss.
Smoking can restrict blood flow to the gums, making them more susceptible to infection. This can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. Bacteria can then build up in these pockets and cause gum disease. Furthermore, tobacco use has been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. All of these factors contribute to an increased risk of tooth decay and other dental problems.
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health, and it may also help to improve your overall health as well. If you are struggling to quit, there are many resources available to help you including nicotine replacement therapies and counseling. Talk to your dentist about what might be right for you.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why teeth decay in adults. However, some of the most common causes include diet, smoking, and poor oral hygiene. You can help to prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist for professional cleanings, and eating a balanced diet. Your oral health is important so make sure to take care of your teeth!