Written by: Rumaisa Zulfeqar
Email: rumaisa.zulfeqar@gmail.com
Introduction
We have always heard about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It ranges from good physical to social and emotional well-being. To lead a happy life, we need to understand the different aspects of a healthy lifestyle. It is not just defined as remaining disease-free, but it has a greater meaning to it! What I have noticed is that in the rush to eat green vegetables and lift huge weights at the gym, we forget the importance of hygiene, specifically oral hygiene.
Oral hygiene refers to maintaining the health of our teeth, gums, lips, and overall mouth. Diseases like periodontal gum disease and tooth cavities are gaining prevalence due to the usual neglect and carelessness towards oral health. In this article, we will focus on cavities.
Figure 1. Process of Dental Decay
Why Do Cavities Develop?
Cavities are holes in our teeth that develop as a result of tooth decay. The process of cavity formation is as follows:
The sugary foods or leftover food particles in the mouth combine with the saliva, where a bacterial culture thrives. This leads to plaque formation, which is a sticky, colorless substance.
If not removed, the layer of plaque hardens into tartar or calculus, which is harder to remove.
When the bacteria in plaque respire, acids are produced which erode the enamel layer of teeth. These tiny holes are the first stage of the cavity.
When bacteria reach dentin, the second layer of a tooth, sensitivity occurs.
Tooth decay worsens when bacteria reach the pulp, which has nerve endings and blood vessels. Pulp swells, causing nerves to get compressed. Eventually, the patient feels pain and discomfort, which can spread out of the tooth root up to the bone.
Types of Cavities
There are mainly three types of cavities:
Smooth Surface Cavity
It occurs on the smooth side of the teeth. It grows slowly by dissolving the tooth enamel. However, it can be cured sometimes if proper oral hygiene is followed.
Root Cavity
It develops on the surface of tooth roots. Therefore, people with receding gums are more likely to develop this condition. This is a difficult condition to treat or prevent.
Pit and Fissure Cavity
It develops on the top, chewing surface of teeth which has grooves. It is a fast-growing condition and very common among teenagers.
Figure 2. Types of Cavities
Day-to-Day Practices Which Cause Cavities
The best way to prevent cavities is to conduct healthy oral practices and refrain from habits that may lead to further dental decay. These unhealthy habits include:
Unhealthy Sugar Consumption
The bacteria in our mouth thrive on sugars, so consuming large amounts of sugary foods such as candies, juices, sodas, and sweet snacks can make our teeth more prone to tooth decay. It is better to reduce sugar intake. Even if sugar is consumed, it is suggested to rinse your mouth afterwards.
Smoking
Smoking encourages bacterial growth and hence, plaque and tartar formation in the mouth which are a huge reason for dental decay. Minimizing the use of tobacco can improve oral health.
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohols such as red wine and beer have acids that erode the enamel of the teeth. It also reduces the production of saliva which means the bacteria on teeth cannot be washed off easily.
Eating Before Sleeping
The plaque builds up on the leftover food particles in our mouth overnight if we eat before bed. Therefore, it leads to cavities. It is better to eat a few hours before sleeping and brush your teeth before going to sleep.
Limited Fluoride Intake
Fluorides form a mineral layer on the enamel which guards it against damage. It should be incorporated in toothpaste and even drinking water. Use fluoride toothpaste for the best results.
Improper Brushing Technique
People tend to brush their teeth aggressively which causes enamel to wear off, and gums to recede, eventually causing sensitivity and cavities. Instead of scrubbing your teeth, it is better to gently massage them with soft-bristled toothbrushes.
Chewing Ice
Though eating ice after a refreshing drink on a scalding hot day seems relieving, it is likely to cause erosion of enamel which may prove painful. Instead, drink chilled beverages with a straw to avoid this from happening.
Nail Biting
Nails have bacteria that enter our mouth when we bite them. Furthermore, nail biting also damages our teeth, and may cause our jaw to protrude outwards in the long run. To prevent this, nail polishes can be used.
Using Teeth to Open Things
Using teeth as a tool to open up packets and bottle caps is a common practice. However, it causes teeth to chip and wear out over time.
Dry Mouth
People with dry mouths are more likely to get cavities because saliva in our mouth counters the effect of the acid produced by bacteria. Without it, the risk of tooth decay is greater. This may be because of certain medications or simply due to dehydration. Drinking ample water would prove helpful.
Figure 3. Dental Friendly Foods
Intake of dental-friendly foods and avoiding all the above-mentioned practices which are likely to instigate dental decay will help us maintain our oral health.
Conclusion
Although cavities do not spread like a virus from person to person through the air, cavity-causing bacteria can be transmitted through sharing of toothbrushes or kissing. Moreover, if one tooth gets affected by cavities, the nearby teeth may start to decay as well. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to stay safe from these complications. After all, oral health is as significant as our mental and physical health.
Bibliography
“Cavities and tooth decay - Symptoms and causes.” Mayo Clinic, 30 November 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892. Accessed 29 December 2023.
“Cavities (Tooth Decay): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 27 March 2023, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10946-cavities. Accessed 29 December 2023.
“7 Cavity Risk Factors | Gregory A. Balog, DDS.” Dentist in Monroe, MI, 13 June 2019, https://www.monroemichigandentist.com/7-risk-factors-that-increase-your-chances-of-getting-cavities/. Accessed 29 December 2023.
“10 Bad Dental Habits to Leave Behind.” University General Dentists, 15 April 2020, https://utknoxvilledentists.com/bad-dental-habits-to-leave-behind/. Accessed 29 December 2023.
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