What are cavities anyways? You only hear about them when they are on your doorstep and knocking on your teeth. These little dental nightmares aren’t just punishment for eating poorly. They are much, much more. Learn more about what cavities are and how to fight them on a daily basis below.
Cavities are caused by two main factors bacteria and acid balance – making your mouth into one dental storm. An imbalance of these ingredients mixed together cause what is called dental caries. The cavities may be a number of different colors from yellow to black. Symptoms may include pain and difficulty with eating.
An unhealthy “biofilm” is what tends to lead towards these dental caries. A biofilm is a mixture of good and bad bacteria. When this balance of good a bad bacterium gets disturbed and balance is not found, it leaves your teeth open to attack. One way that biofilms can become unhealthy is through an unbalanced pH (the acidity of your mouth). Eating and drinking heavily acidic food and drinks can kill good bacteria and leave more room for the bad. Try to opt into better choices than sodas and other highly acidic consumables.
One last consideration when thinking about cavities is your saliva. Yes, spit! This is a natural buffer before your teeth. May sure to keep drinking your water everyday and keep that mouth healthy.
For more tips about how to avoid cavities, contact us today!