Contact Us Today!
Why are Some People More Prone to Cavities
Posted on February 23rd, 2023
Why are Cavities Prevalent in Some People More than Others?
Many of us often hear that only children get cavities, and as adults we are left wondering, “Why do I keep getting cavities?” The reason is not always clear, but the fact remains that many adults are cavity prone despite taking proper care of their teeth, eating healthy, and scheduling regular visits to their dentist. This can be caused by genetics, receding gums, overcrowded teeth, medication, and more.
Steps to Prevent Cavities for Cavity Prone Individuals
The question of why do some of us get more cavities than others is not always easy to answer. If you are brushing twice a day, flossing, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for exams and teeth cleanings, but you still worry about developing cavities, you might benefit from trying these tips:
- Talk to Your Doctor – If you are on a specific type of medication, it may leave you more susceptible to cavities. Find out if this is a side effect of any medications you are taking.
- Drink More Water – Dry mouth is a common culprit of tooth decay since saliva helps wash away cavity causing bacteria that sits on our teeth. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help reduce the likelihood of cavity development. Additionally, dry mouth may also be a symptom of menopause.
- Watch Your Diet – Even those of us who eat a healthy diet may not realize just how many foods we consume daily that harm our tooth enamel. For example, coffee and seltzer water are not necessarily unhealthy, but they can seriously damage your dental health due to their acidity levels.
- Floss & Consider Your Dental Anatomy – Even if your teeth are predominantly straight, overcrowded teeth are often prone to cavities because food gets caught between them easily and is left to erode tooth enamel. Flossing can help prevent this, but sometimes orthodontic care is necessary. For individuals with crooked teeth the same rules apply.
- Look into Dental Sealants – While sealing teeth to prevent cavities is a treatment usually reserved to protect children’s oral health, dental sealants for adults are also a great option for cavity prevention if you are especially susceptible to tooth decay.
- Assess Your Gum Health – Gum recession, often caused by gum disease or harsh brushing habits, can leave the lowest parts of your teeth exposed and susceptible to decay.
Visit Windy City Family Dental
If you are interested in improving your oral health and addressing specific dental concerns, like tooth decay, gingivitis, or crooked teeth, the team at Windy City Family Dental can help. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our dental professionals and get started on improving your smile today!
