Every Dentist in Littleton will tell their patients that carbohydrates (sugars and starches) increase the risk of cavities and dental decay. Sticky foods are more harmful than non-sticky because they remain on the surface of the teeth. The constant snacking between meals increases the time that acids are in contact with the tooth surface. When the normal rate of oral pH decreases, the teeth are affected by destructive acids. If the level of acid concentration is below the pH 5.7 threshold, tooth enamel is demineralized. If the acid attack (caused by sugary snacks and drinks) is repeated several times a day, saliva cannot naturally demineralize tooth enamel.
Everyone loves sweets and they do not pay attention to the advice given by professionals on the dangers of their intake. The risk for tooth decay depends on the frequency and length of sugar consumption and how often the teeth touch the acids that are present in plaque. Remember that poor dietary habits cause tooth decay. But what happens after you have fixed the problem and you are still having issues?
There are some circumstances that, despite not being directly etiological components of dental decay, they are still aggravating factors that may increase the risk of infection. These are some factors that can hamper proper oral hygiene or may decrease host resistance to microbial attacks. The following are important examples.
1. Poorly positioned teeth, deep fissures or defective edges after restorations: These factors involve an increased accumulation of plaque and there are circumstances where it is difficult to clean certain areas which are more prone to microbial infection.
2. Acquired dental defects: These are some defects that are not intrinsic to the patient, but have come up because of certain habits. A Dentist in Littleton area may refer to, for example, signs of abrasion caused by brushing too vigorously; or signs of erosion or decalcification of the enamel due to microbial reasons.
3. Factors related to saliva: A low salivary flow (xerostomia) affects oral health and raises the number of cariogenic microorganisms. That is, it increases the risk of cavities directly.
As mentioned, the analysis of each dentist may be useful to determine if the patient has any of these aggravating factors. It is also used to determine what steps are needed to prevent the possible involvement of dental decay. Talk with your dentist to learn more.
