Tooth decay is one of the most frequent dental diseases today. It appears mostly in young patients who are used to eating sugary and also extremely harmful foods day in and day out. Although dental fillings and other treatments can eliminate tooth decay, the most important thing is prevention. Dentists, parents and children must strive to fight these annoying bacteria and take proper control of bacterial plaque. To do this, people must know what the risk factors for tooth decay are exactly. Each local office of dentistry in Providence RI will explain the following.
Frequent intake of carbohydrates is the most obvious risk factor for dental decay. Consumption, especially sugar, promotes tooth decay. Poor control of bacterial plaque is also a common cause of dental decay. The lack of routine brushing and flossing and poor use of topical compounds decrease tooth protection against external threats. Remember that, since childhood, a child must brush at least twice a day, using a suitable toothpaste, flossing daily and scheduling visits to the dental clinic every six months.
Filling a baby’s bottle with juice, cola or other products containing sugar in large amounts increases the risk of tooth decay. This may particularly affect the upper incisors, according to experts in Dentistry in Providence RI, the most exposed part of the mouth to these types of liquid. When the child contracts the disease, it is known as baby bottle tooth decay (early childhood tooth decay). Leaving the baby to sleep with a bottle of milk can also be a risk due to possible leakage from the bottle.
Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth syndrome, creates an ecosystem suitable for the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. In addition, it decreases salivation and protection against harmful microorganisms, which then increases the risk of tooth decay. The infant stage of growth carries a special risk for tooth decay. Why? At the time of the eruption of the teeth, the enamel is slightly mineralized and is more vulnerable to acids. The root, however, appears decayed in older ages; given that this can only occur on exposed roots after suffering periodontitis. Click here to learn more.
