Lake Grove Dental: Detectives for your mouth!

What used to be a common question, “Why do I always have cavities?” isn’t as common as it used to be. Newer understanding of what contributes to dental decay and preventive measures have made a huge change in the oral health of our patients. Contributing factors to decay are usually poor home care and infrequent professional dental cleanings, dry mouth, certain bacteria and/or a high acid diet.

About every three months, biofilm, a sticky cluster of microorganisms, sticks to our teeth. Brushing and flossing slow the build-up, but a professional cleaning mechanically removes this layer below the gumline and from in-between the teeth which are often missed with regular homecare.

Our teeth are bathed in saliva. A lack of it creates an environment that tooth decay thrives in. Many things can lead to “dry mouth”. Commonly used medications, dehydration, smoking, receiving chemotherapy, acid reflux, radiation treatments and certain diseases can harm saliva production. The pH of saliva is another aspect of cavity prevention. Healthy saliva is naturally neutral. When you eat or drink, the pH in your mouth changes. Keep the saliva as neutral as possible by reducing consumption of high acid foods and between meal snacks. Rinsing with water after eating is another helpful solution.

The presence of certain bacteria is another known cause of decay. Bacterial testing is now available for a low cost. Which bacteria are in your mouth and gut are now discoverable through a simple spit test. See your dentist to be your tooth sleuth!