Dental cavity is a type of tooth damage that creates holes and pits in your teeth. Toothache and sensitivity are the major symptoms of cavities. Do you know what causes dental cavities? While some foods and habits directly lead to dental cavities, there are some factors that indirectly result in cavities.

Here are some major causes of dental cavities.

Causes of Cavities

• Improper dental hygiene

• Depleting tooth enamel

• Dry mouth

• Sugary food and beverages

• High-carb food

• Acidic foods and beverages

• Lack of nutrition

• Lack of fluorine

• Smoking and chewing tobacco

• Plaque and tartar

• Tooth decay

• Age (kids and old aged)

• Genetic factors

• Tooth grinding

• Inappropriate tooth alignment

• Continuous vomiting

• Heartburn

Ways to Avoid Cavities

1) Follow Good Oral Hygiene Regime

Brush at least twice a day with a good, fluoridated toothpaste and the right toothbrush. Floss every day with the most appropriate type of floss that suits your mouth. Also, rinse your mouth with a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash.

2) Avoid Consuming Sugary Items

Give up on candies, cookies, cakes, ice creams, jellies, etc. Also, avoid consuming smoothies, soft drinks, energy drinks, and other sugary beverages. You can clean your mouth after consuming these sugary foods and beverages by brushing or simply rinsing with water or mouthwash.

3) Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages

Limit the consumption of carbohydrates and starch by avoiding white rice, white bread, potato, etc. Avoid consuming acidic foods and beverages like sauces, sodas, pickles, etc. These foods and beverages deplete the tooth enamel and lead to several dental and gum problems.

4) Avoid Smoking and Chewing Tobacco

Quit smoking cigarettes, chewing tobaccos, or consuming it in any form. The aim is to give up nicotine consumption that leads to bad breath, tooth staining, cavities, and other dental problems.

5) Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Saliva flushes the harmful bacteria and keeps various dental problems at bay. Consume crunchy fruits and vegetables such as celery, carrots, apples, nuts, etc. as these stimulate the formation and flow of saliva in your mouth.

6) Visit the Dentist Regularly

A dental check-up and clean-up by skilled dentists are important. Dentists can identify potential dental problems and eliminate them before they get serious and result in cavities and tooth decay.

Cavities can be avoided if you pay more attention to your eating and drinking habits and your lifestyle. If you are planning to see a dentist soon in the coming future, consider Edmonton Downtown Dental. We are a team of skilled dentists that provide solutions for all your oral health and hygiene concerns. Or if you simply want to know more about cavities, tooth decay, or other dental problems, you can give us a call at 780-424-7475.