Although we are taught, repeatedly, from an early age that the right dental hygiene habits will prevent cavities, that is not all together true. While brushing, flossing, using an approved mouthwash, and regular visits to the dentist will help to keep cavities at bay, there are other factors at play that can dictate whether or not a person suffers a cavity.
The Part Played by Diet
The eating and drinking habits of a person have a big impact on dental health. Although healthy eating and exercise are often discussed for how their power to improve energy levels, improve mental capacity, and, of course, shrink the waistline, rarely do people consider how the foods they impact their teeth and gums. There are exceptions, of course. Most do realize that an abundance of candy (on Halloween, for instance) isn’t good for the teeth. It goes much further than that, however. High fat, high sugar, or high acid foods can all lead to tooth decay. The healthier, more vitamin rich the diet, the better the teeth will fare. Soft drinks, sugary sweets, and highly processed foods are some of the biggest offenders.
The Part Played By Genetics
There is also a genetic component to consider when trying to figure out why one person has had several cavities, while another is cavity-free. There are a few different ways that genetics can work against you when it comes to dental health. The most notable of those are:
- Saliva Production Some people naturally produce more saliva than others. While this may, at first, sound like a not-so-attractive quality, in truth saliva is a key defender of cavity formation. The most saliva there is, the more bacteria will be flushed away from the teeth and gums. While water consumption plays a big role in maintaining health saliva production, genetics is also at play. Some people are predisposed to dry mouth.
- Crevice Formation Bacteria is to blame for the decay that leads to cavities. The bacteria feeds on the sugars and residual food left in the crevices of teeth. The byproduct of eats away at the enamel of the teeth, ultimately leading to decay and cavities. The more areas there are for food to become trapped, the more opportunity the bacteria have to feed. Some people naturally have deeper- and more abundant crevices in their teeth, leaving them at greater risk of cavity formation.