Why do I keep getting cavities?
Have you generally had a pretty good run with oral health but have had a sudden influx of cavities? We’ve compiled a list of possible reasons for this sudden change.
While getting a filling should be step one when your dentist finds a cavity, it is just as important to look at the root cause.
Stress increases the risk of cavities
If you are experiencing more stress in your day to day life, signs are likely to appear throughout your body. Common indicators are higher blood pressure, an increased immune response and inflammation throughout the body. Stress can also cause clenching and grinding of the teeth during the day or night. Clenching or grinding adds pressure to your once strong teeth and causes wearing down, cracks or fractures. Weakened teeth are more susceptible to cavities.
If you notice you have been clenching or grinding lately, discuss this with your dentist at your next appointment. We can prescribe a splint or mouth guard to wear at night to reduce the impact while you get your stress levels down.
Changes in your routine could be the reason for more cavities
Lifestyle factors can provide some indication of why you may be experiencing more cavities than usual. Have you started a new job? A new diet? New exercise routine? A new routine can change your regular habits. This could include forgetting to brush teeth at night more often.
Having a dry mouth from an increase in exercise can prevent natural cleaning processes throughout the day. This isn’t a free pass to skip the gym, though! Simply remember to drink more water when you work out to combat this. Are you drinking coffee more frequently than before? This could mean an increase in milk and sugar.
Consider any recent changes in your routine and lifestyle; this could be the greatest indication as to why your oral health has deteriorated.
Have you been sick? Medications can be high in sugar which is a major cause of cavities
Cough lollies and cough mixtures are notoriously high in sugar. While it might be helping you fight off that flu, cough lollies are just that – lollies! Sucking on sugary cough drops causes a coating of sugar across your teeth. Bacteria in your mouth react with this sugar creating decay in your teeth, which can develop into serious damage. Sickness can also increase the amount of bacteria in the body which are a major component in the development of decay.
The age factor
As we age, changes in our body do occur. Most attention is given to wrinkles and saggy skin but, unfortunately, your teeth are also affected. Receding gums are a common occurrence in older patients, particularly those who have had problems with gum disease in the past. As gums recede, they expose areas of unprotected tooth surfaces. These areas are more susceptible to damage.
Teeth can start to move position as the bone and face structures change. They can spread apart as the mouth muscles relax. Loss of bone density can cause teeth to move forwards or to overlap. This shifting of position can mean the efficiency of your oral hygiene routine could become compromised. When you are brushing and flossing, these areas can be accidentally missed or hide bits of food. This increases the risk of cavities because teeth aren’t getting the proper clean they need.
If you have noticed a change in your teeth position, contact Wahroonga Dental today. We have a range of discreet teeth straightening options for adult patients available.