I take care of my teeth. Why do I still get cavities?

Question:

I brush regularly and floss when I can.  Overall, I take very good care of my teeth.  But why do I still get cavities?

Answer:

A number of factors come into play when it comes to keeping your teeth clean.

Are You Brushing Correctly?

First off, though you brush your teeth often, are you brushing them correctly?  Make sure the bristles of your toothbrush reach every area on the tooth, including the back surface and especially the surface closest to the gumline, these are areas where bacteria usually build up.

Are You Flossing Correctly?

When you floss, do you guide the floss down below the gumline, following the curvature of the tooth?  Flossing takes more than just moving the strand between the teeth, be sure to see our article on flossing for more details.

Number of Cavities Can Be Hereditary!

And sadly, research has shown that an individual’s ability to get cavities is hereditary…that’s right, HEREDITARY!!!  So if your mother or father had a high number of cavities, than your risk of getting cavities is greatly increased.  It’s not inevitable, it just means that your mouth’s pH is more favorable to bacterial growth and development.  This means that you must take extra caution in your daily oral hygiene habits and the types of food that you consume.

Are You Eating the Right Foods?

Yet another factor that plays a large role in the development of cavities is diet.  Of course, if you have a diet that’s high in carbohydrates and sugars, you can expect more cavities.  So try to stay away from soda, candy, and a lot of bread on a regular basis.

Hope this helps and good luck!

Signs of Gingivitis

Gum disease, known as gingivitis (or it’s more severe form, periodontitis), refers to the inflammation of the gums (gingiva).  It results from accumulation of bacteria near the gum line, causing bacterial invasion into the tissues of the body.  If not addressed and treated, gingivitis will lead to recession of the gums, bone loss, tooth loss, and systemic disease.

Signs of Gingivitis

• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing)
• Shiny or red gums
• Associated pain
• Bad breath or foul smelling gums
• Gum recession (teeth appear longer)

Causes of Gingivitis

• Most often caused by plaque accumulation and poor oral hygiene habits
• Hormonal changes (i.e. pregnancy)
• Certain medications that may suppress the immune system

Gingivitis is a mild form of inflammation.  Unlike it’s more serious form, periodontitis, gingivitis can be treated quickly and easily if addressed in a timely fashion.

Treatment for Gingivitis

• Improve oral hygiene habits – Brush after each meal and floss every day.  If this regimen is followed precisely, the bleeding will eventually stop.
• Incorporate a mouth rinse, preferably with chlorohexidine, into your daily routine.  This can assist with the removal of unwanted bacteria.
• Visit the dentist and get a cleaning – The dentist will be able to effectively remove plaque and calculus, the main causes of gingivitis.  However, it’s up to you to maintain the plaque free mouth after this point.
• Antibiotics – If serious, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control the bacterial invasion.

All in all, gingivitis can easily be managed if addressed early.  Take the right steps in keeping up with your oral hygiene to maintain a healthy smile.

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