What is the Leading Cause of Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a condition that affects millions of people in the United States, and although the causes can vary between poor diet, and hygiene, right through to genetic prepositions and environmental factors – the results are typically the same. Fortunately, tooth decay is a preventable condition, with more than a dozen unique treatments available to help people of all ages. In this post, we’ll be getting to grips with the leading causes of tooth decay and how a person could help themselves to prevent it.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is one of the main reasons why people try to find a dentist office in Palm Coast, Florida. Every year, thousands of patients undergo procedures to help to restore the condition of their teeth. The main cause has been attributed equally to a poor diet and a lack of hygiene, although it is worth noting that this isn’t always the case.

Most forms of tooth decay occur when food particles are able to build up, resulting in decomposition which can impact the strength of enamel. As enamel continues to deteriorate, the sensitive part of a tooth can be exposed. One of the earliest signs of this issue is pain while chewing, or when drinking a cold beverage.

The second most common cause of tooth decay is a poor diet. Foods that are high in sugar can break enamel down, exposing the vulnerable layers of the tooth underneath to take damage, resulting in gradual decay. Other types of food that can contribute to decay include wine and alcohol in general, as well as products that contain high amounts of salt, synthetic flavorings, and citrus drinks.

The third most prominent cause of tooth decay is smoking. The toxic and typically carcinogenic nature of cigarette and cigar smoke can cause enamel to crumble and discolor, making it easier for plaque and tartar to adhere to the surface of teeth, which in turn can result in decay.

How Can Tooth Decay Be Treated?

This will usually depend on the severity of the condition and how early it has been detected. For minor grades of tooth decay, a good dentist can implement a variety of preservative features which can help to restore the strength of teeth, whilst simultaneously removing the consequences of the decay.

The issue will arise again if habits aren’t changed, however.

For more extreme cases and when tooth protection or repair isn’t an option, the actual structure may need to be removed entirely. Fortunately, there are options that can be used to avoid embarrassment for the patient, such as false teeth being fitted, veneers being aligned, or re-constructive surgery.

The real concern can take place when the decay has spread through the base of the tooth, into the gum line and then along the jaw. In these extreme circumstances, complete reconstruction may be required, and this is why it’s so important to visit a dentist at the earliest signs of decay.

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