Causes of Cavities

    SACRAMENTO, CA, April 15, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- By now you should know that brushing, flossing and seeing your general dentist twice a year helps prevent cavities. These things help to prevent cavities from forming. Your dentist will also be able to fill the hole caused by cavities, if any are found. However, some people are more predisposed to getting cavities than are others.

Cavities, also known as caries, are holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay. There are estimates that roughly 90% of adults around the world have had a cavity at some point in their life. Some of these adults may have only had one while others may have had multiple cavities.

Cavities can form at any age, too. While most people have cavities at a young age, many adults still suffer tooth decay and have mouths full of multiple fillings. Cavities are not only caused by eating too much sugar, as mothers around the world have told their children over the years. Cavities are caused by one of two different types of bacteria.

How Bacteria Causes Teeth to Decay

Lactobacilli and mutans streptococci are the culprits that cause holes to develop in your teeth. These two types of bacteria are already present in your mouth feeding off carbohydrates left over from the food you eat and the beverages you drink. Sugar in the carbohydrates is excreted as waste by the bacteria, which then collects on the teeth. Acid in the excretions begins to erode tooth enamel, which causes teeth to decay if not treated.

Counteracting Bacterial Acids

The mouth has natural defenses against bacteria that will destroy your teeth. The main one is your saliva. Saliva neutralizes the acidic environment caused by bacterial waste. Drinking enough water throughout the day and avoiding dry mouth help keep saliva active. This is especially important to remember if you are taking any medications, have a disease, or use tobacco products which lessen the flow of saliva.

If you have a cavity and are in the Sacramento, California area, please visit the website of Advanced Dental Concepts to schedule an appointment with Dr. David Miller today at www.hightechsmiles.com.

# # #