Have you ever visited the dentist with just one complaint and discovered a lot of cavities or issues that you hadn't noticed before?
Or despite brushing regularly, have you found out at every check-up that you have new cavities?
It is common for children under the age of 10, teenagers, and mature adults (aged 60 and over) to develop cavities rapidly.
The under-10 age group is at risk due to consuming milk or other beverages right before bedtime, chewing gum or eating sugary snacks, inability to effectively brush their own teeth, or use dental floss.
Teenagers are at risk due to braces, excessive alcohol consumption, not brushing their teeth before bedtime, snacking or consuming coffee while studying.
Mature adults are at risk due to medications that alter body chemistry and cause dry mouth, as well as diseases that reduce saliva flow such as diabetes and menopause.
Risk factors for new cavity formation include:
Dental braces, excessive consumption of acidic beverages, frequent snacking, inadequate saliva flow, existing cavities, deep pits and fissures often seen in molars, use of medications that reduce saliva flow, visible plaque and poor oral hygiene, new cavities in the past three years, existing fillings, and radiographic lesions.
What we eat, drink, and how often we eat and drink play a major role. Anything other than water is acidic, such as soda, fruit juice, energy drinks, vitamin waters, and carbonated drinks. Dry, paste-like, or sugary substances contribute to food particles staying in the mouth for longer periods.
Limit food consumption to meal times and only drink water outside of meal times.
Consume foods (such as apples, carrots, cheese, nuts) that neutralize acidity in the mouth after snacking.
Chew sugar-free gum.
Rinse your mouth with water after drinking tea or coffee.
Brush your teeth regularly, especially before bedtime and in the morning, and use dental floss.
If you experience dry mouth, drink plenty of water.
The presence of cavities seen in the last three years and radiographic lesions are important. They help understand the frequency of cavity formation.
Even with a dental filling or crown, cavities can occur. Essentially, any exposed part of the tooth structure is susceptible to tooth decay.