Do you seem to get cavities all the time, despite your best efforts to brush and floss regularly? If so, you may be prone to cavities, as some people have an easier time developing decay. When you accept that you may be among this group, you can make a better plan to protect your teeth and to avoid future cavities.
Thank Your Parents
You probably have a lot to thank your parents for in your life, but sadly, your cavity-prone teeth could be another. Enamel defects and the shape of your teeth may make it easier for bacteria to get stuck onto and around the teeth. When these bacteria feed on sugars and create acids, they can easily access the surface of the teeth.
Another potential genetic factor in cavity-prone mouths is the saliva composition. If your saliva is more acidic or if your body simply doesn’t produce enough saliva, you may be more likely to develop cavities than your peers.
Fight Back Against Cavities!
Just because your genetics make you more prone to cavities doesn’t mean that you can’t fight back. Good dental hygiene should always be your first step, as you’ll need to remove plaque, debris, and food particles from deep crevices. Drinking fluoridated water and using toothpaste with fluoride is also helpful in keeping the enamel strong.
You may also want to consider dental sealants in order to protect your mouth from decay. Sealants are especially helpful in teeth with enamel defects or deep groves, as they serve as a protective barrier to prevent bacteria and acid from causing damage.
Do you think that your teeth are prone to cavities, or do you suspect that you might have a new cavity? If so, please give our office a call. We will treat any current problems and will help you to create a plan to prevent future cavities.