10 Unexpected Causes of Cavities and Need to be Watched Out for

Kapanlagi.com - Tooth decay is a common problem often encountered in society. This condition usually causes toothache. Not only toothache, tooth decay can also cause other problems such as bad breath. The cause of tooth decay itself can come from unexpected or simple factors but need to be aware of.

Tooth decay is a condition that occurs when normal teeth are damaged. Where there is hard tissue in the teeth that is damaged due to cavities. Cavities arise due to bacteria that cause tooth decay. Generally, tooth decay can be marked by a change in the color around the tooth to black.

This condition causes the teeth to feel more sensitive to certain foods or drinks. Especially the pain can arise when consuming foods or drinks that cause pain such as hot, cold, and sweet drinks. Generally, treatment for cavities can be done by filling the tooth.

The cause of cavities can occur due to several specific factors that cause damage to the teeth. The cause of cavities turns out to come from unexpected factors, namely can occur due to daily habits.

As for the unexpected causes of cavities but need to be aware of, they are listed in the review below. The following causes of cavities have been summarized by kapanlagi.com from various sources.

1. Presence of Dental Plaque

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The first cause of cavities can be caused by plaque on the teeth. Dental plaque is a sticky layer that coats the teeth. Plaque can form due to food residues that remain attached or left on the surface of the teeth. When unaware of the presence of plaque from food residues, the plaque will accumulate and harden, forming dental calculus.

This dental calculus can cause various problems in the teeth and mouth. Because plaque can increase bacteria and cause cavities. According to crest.com, this condition occurs because plaque can produce acid that attacks tooth enamel and triggers cavities.

2. Bacteria and Acid on Teeth

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The cause of cavities can also occur due to bacteria found on the teeth. The increased number of bacteria on the teeth and acid can trigger tooth decay. According to mayoclinic.org, when the teeth are damaged, bacteria and acid can cause sensitivity and irritation in the dental pulp.

The dental pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that can swell. This swelling is what causes sensitivity, pain, and discomfort, even reaching the root of the tooth and bone.

3. Lack of Dental Hygiene

Maintaining dental and oral hygiene is important to maintain its health. In this case, brushing teeth is usually done twice a day to remove plaque from leftover food. However, poor dental hygiene can lead to problems, including cavities.

According to mayoclinic.org, cavities usually occur in the back teeth, namely the molars and premolars. This is because these areas are generally inaccessible and more difficult to clean. As a result, cavities can occur if dental hygiene in the back teeth is not properly maintained.

4. Sweet Foods and Drinks

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Sweet foods and drinks are the most common cause of cavities. This condition occurs because sweet foods and drinks tend to trigger decay and increase the number of bacteria.

According to honestdocs.id, sweet foods and drinks can be the most strategic place for bacteria to multiply. As a result, plaque can form and accumulate. This is because sweet foods and drinks apparently adhere more easily to the surface of the teeth but are difficult to clean naturally with saliva.

5. Low Fluoride Intake

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The next cause of cavities can occur due to a lack of fluoride intake on the teeth. According to mayoclinic.org, fluoride is a natural mineral that can prevent cavities or even tooth damage. If the fluoride intake is low, it is possible that dental problems, including cavities, can occur.

It is not surprising that low fluoride intake can trigger various problems such as easy tooth decay. Usually, fluoride can be obtained from the use of mouthwash or toothpaste.

6. Age Factor

Cavities can also occur due to a person's age factor. According to mayoclinic.org, very young age levels, namely children and adolescents, are susceptible to the risk of cavities. The same goes for those who are older, they are also at high risk of experiencing cavities.

Because someone with a older age may use certain medications that can reduce saliva flow. This is what triggers an increased risk of cavities.

7. Dry Mouth

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Another cause of tooth decay is dry mouth condition. Dry mouth can be caused by certain factors including dehydration. Dehydration that triggers dry mouth can lead to tooth damage. This condition occurs due to a lower amount of saliva in the mouth and teeth to prevent damage.

In addition, various triggering factors that cause low or decreased saliva levels can also increase tooth damage, including cavities. For example, the side effects of certain medications or other medical conditions.

8. Damage to Dental Fillings

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Having a cavity and treating it by filling the tooth can also be a cause of tooth decay. This condition can occur because the dental filling, which has been in place for a long time, can become damaged or weaker. As a result, this condition may trigger decay in the cavity at its base, as reported by mayoclinic.org.

9. Eating Disorders

Experiencing eating disorders can also cause tooth decay. Among these eating disorders are anorexia and bulimia. This condition can increase stomach acid and trigger vomiting. If vomiting occurs several times, it can cause tooth enamel to dissolve. In addition, eating disorders can also decrease saliva production.

10. Certain Medical Conditions

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The cause of tooth decay can also be attributed to certain medical conditions. For example, undergoing certain medical treatments such as radiation can have specific side effects. According to crest.com, certain types of cancer treatments can expose the head and neck to radiation. As a result, this condition can lead to tooth damage and disrupt saliva production.

These are the unexpected 10 causes of tooth decay that need to be aware of. Consultation and further examination may be considered to address tooth decay properly.

(kpl/nlw)