No More Cavities in the New Year

CEBU, Philippines -  Cavities refer to tooth decay which occurs when specific types of bacteria produce acids and destroy the tooth enamel and its underlying layer, which is the dentin. To avoid this, it is important to address the causes early on so it cannot cause more damage over time.

Here are some common causes of tooth decay:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene. Oral hygiene generally refers to practices for ensuring good health and cleanliness. Not observing proper oral hygiene – like regular tooth brushing, flossing, and brushing the tongue – is the quickest way to welcome cavities.

2. Poor Nutrition.Over-consuming sweet, starchy foods such as cupcakes and donuts can cause tooth decay. When sugar is consumed, it interacts with bacteria inside the plaque to produce acid. This acid is responsible for tooth decay because it slowly dissolves the enamel, creating holes on the teeth.

3. Acidic Food and Beverages. Soda beverages, citrus fruits, and other drinks high in acidity can contribute to the formation of cavities. One shouldn’t brush his or her teeth directly after consuming acidic food and beverages as this can actually do more harm than good. The acid goes on the teeth right away, and brushing will only erode and irritate the enamel further.

4. Dry Mouth.A dry mouth increases the susceptibility of teeth to cavities. According to Dr. William Litaker, the lack of saliva can cause an increase in cavities. Saliva lubricates and helps neutralize the acid in the decay, causing plaque. The less saliva, the more chance of developing cavities.

5. Deep Pits and Fissures.Pits and fissures are deep grooves that make up the chewing surfaces on the teeth. Although these grooves help you chew, food at times gets stuck. Bacterial film starts to form on the teeth if not cleaned regularly. It’s quite hard to reach this area with a toothbrush, so food and plaque remain in place, which leads to dental cavity. They can be prevented by regularly brushing the teeth. A dentist can also recommend a dental sealant to act as a barrier protecting the enamel from plaque and acids.

6. Not Getting Enough Fluoride.Fluoride, topically applied frequently in low concentrations, increases both growth and size of enamel crystals which lessens future buildup of dental cavities.

7. Not Having Regular Checkup with the Dentist.Having a regular checkup with the dentist can help monitor any developing cavities and prevent it from developing further. Routine checkup and regular cleaning are musts in order to maintain good oral hygiene.

Gan AdvancedOsseointegration Clinic (GAOC) offers help with oral hygiene. The clinic does oral prophylaxis along with other services – from general dentistry to oral surgery, orthodontics, cosmetic and laser dentistry, and pediatric dentistry, to name a few. Dental surgeon Steve Mark G. Gan D.M.D. together with his highly skilled team of dentists provide gentle, caring and professional care with the aid of the most advanced dental equipment and facilities available. To book an appointment, one may contact 0917-840-4262 or visit GAOC at the 3/F of SM Seaside Cebu.  More info is posted atwww.gaocdental.com.