Taking care of your teeth is important, and preventive dentistry helps keep your smile healthy. But what if you still develop tooth decay (cavities) even when you brush and floss every day?
If notice dark spots on your teeth, increased dental sensitivity, or persistent bad breath, you might be the victim of tooth decay. Luckily, simple yet effective treatments at Signature Smile Arts in Chicago, IL, can stop cavities in their tracks. Call Dr. Michael O’Meara and Dr. Alex Shore at (312) 654-1220 for an appointment now!
Tooth decay can sneak up on you for many reasons, even if you floss and brush like a champ. In today’s post, we take a look at some common causes of cavities and how to fight back!
1. You Eat Too Many Sugary or Acidic Foods
The bacteria in our mouths simply love sugar. Indeed, they thrive off of it! But these sugar-eating bacteria produce acidic waste, which strips teeth of their protective enamel and leads to tooth decay.
Acidic foods include citrus fruits, refined sugar, and vinegar-based dressings. While delicious, it’s best to enjoy these foods in moderation. To further protect your teeth, rinse your mouth with water after eating them.
2. You Have Dry Mouth
Saliva is a unique fluid because it helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. However, if you don’t have enough saliva, bacteria and acid can build up and cause tooth decay.
Certain medications, dehydration, or medical conditions can cause dry mouth. Drinking more water and chewing sugar-free gum can keep your mouth comfortably moist.
3. You Brush Too Hard or Use the Wrong Toothbrush
Brushing too hard can buff off your enamel, making it easier for tooth decay to set in. Furthermore, a hard-bristled toothbrush can deal additional damage to your gums.
Always employ a soft-bristled brush and gentle strokes to protect your teeth and gums.
4. You Skip Regular Dental Check-ups
Even if you brush and floss every day, bacteria and plaque can still accumulate in nooks and crannies. Luckily, our Chicago dentists can remove hard-to-reach plaque and catch early signs of tooth decay during a routine check-up.
Be sure to visit Signature Smile Arts on the Magnificent Mile at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
5. You Don’t Floss Properly
Flossing scrapes away food and plaque between your teeth, but technique matters. If you don’t floss all the way down to your gum line, bacteria can still grow there. Make sure to floss gently and reach every tooth to lower your risk of tooth decay.
6. You Drink Too Many Sugary or Acidic Drinks
Soda (yup, even diet soda), sparkling water, sports drinks, and even fruit juices can weaken your enamel and cause tooth decay. Sipping on them throughout the day makes it worse because your teeth stay coated in sugar and acid.
Try drinking water instead or using a straw to limit enamel erosion.
7. You Have Weak Enamel
Some people naturally have weaker enamel, making them more likely to develop tooth decay. Genetics, childhood illness, or even past dental issues can affect enamel strength.
If this is the case, our Chicago, IL, dentists may recommend fluoride treatments or special toothpaste to help protect your teeth.
Fight Tooth Decay at Signature Smile Arts
Brushing and flossing are important, but they’re only part of the battle against tooth decay. Being mindful of what you eat and drink, keeping up with daily oral care, and visiting our dentists in Chicago, IL, twice a year can make a huge difference.
So, if you want to be cavity-free, click here to schedule an appointment, or call Signature Smile Arts located on the Magnificent Mile at (312) 654-1220 for booking.
