Why do cavities occur in teeth?

Teeth decay when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that dissolve the hard mineralised outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel. This can occur when you consume sugary or starchy foods and beverages, which the bacteria feed on, and produce acids that erode the enamel.

Other factors that can contribute to tooth decay include poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, as well as dry mouth, which reduces the amount of saliva that helps neutralise acid in the mouth.

Additionally, certain medical conditions and medications that reduce the flow of saliva, as well as genetic factors, can increase your risk of developing tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene practices, can help prevent tooth decay.

Why do I have tooth decay when I brush my teeth regularly?

Even if you brush regularly, you can still get tooth decay if you don't practice good oral hygiene habits consistently or if you consume foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acid. Brushing alone cannot remove all the plaque and bacteria from your mouth, especially in hard-to-reach areas, such as between your teeth and around your gum line. Flossing daily and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria from these areas.

Moreover, some people may have an increased risk of tooth decay due to genetic factors, such as having weaker tooth enamel or a reduced ability to produce saliva, which can make it easier for bacteria to grow and thrive in their mouth.

It's important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to catch any signs of tooth decay early and prevent it from getting worse. Your dentist can also provide you with specific recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene based on your individual needs.

What happens if I don’t floss my teeth?

If a person does not floss their teeth, they are missing out on a crucial step in oral hygiene that can lead to several negative consequences. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from areas between teeth and below the gum line that cannot be reached by a toothbrush alone. When plaque and bacteria are not removed from these areas, they can build up over time and cause tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Specifically, without flossing, the plaque and bacteria in between teeth can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar buildup can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation, which can progress into gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to more severe periodontitis, which can cause bone loss and eventually tooth loss.

Moreover, the bacteria in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and are thought to contribute to other health problems, such as heart disease and respiratory infections.

Therefore, it's so important to floss daily to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent these negative consequences. Your dentist and dental hygienist can show you the proper technique for flossing and recommend the best type of floss for your individual needs.