Research shows that 90% of people between the ages of 20 and 64 have had at least one cavity, and the prevalence of cavities increases with age. Developing a cavity, or even two, between six-month checkups isn’t alarming. However, if you’re seeing more tooth decay pop up, talk to your dentist at Signature Smile Arts of Homewood about what might be causing the issue and how to improve your oral health.
We help patients improve their oral health every day! If you’re curious whether you experience more cavities than “normal” or want to learn how to reduce the occurrence of new cavities, we can help. Our dentists, hygienists, and assistants will partner with you to enact a custom treatment and oral health maintenance plan to improve your oral health long term. Call us today at (708) 799-5353.
Why do some people get more cavities than others?
Oral hygiene is a huge factor. Those who practice meticulous home hygiene by brushing twice and flossing once every day, attending six-month checkups and cleanings, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding harmful habits usually enjoy better oral health than others.
In some cases, however, these issues play a role in the development of cavities:
- Genetics
- Enamel strength
- Dry mouth
- Dental misalignment
- Medical conditions
- Acid reflux (GERD)
How can a dentist help you reduce cavity development?
Determining the root cause is the first step. Once the dentist uncovers the underlying source of your proclivity for cavity development, we can work together to resolve the problem. In some cases, you may need to speak with your physician to find out if any of your medications cause dry mouth. Your medical doctor should also treat any contributing medical conditions, like acid reflux, diabetes, or autoimmune issues.
Our dentists will share clues with you. For instance, cavities clustered on back teeth, coupled with acid erosion, may indicate acid reflux. When stomach acid presents in the mouth, it can erode protective dental enamel, resulting in sensitivity and more cavities on these teeth.
Once we address the cause of your excessive cavities, we will restore damage with restorations. Professional preventive fluoride treatments can help deter cavities, as well. Since each case is unique, the dentist will take time to discuss your case, treatment options, and maintenance protocols that suit your specific issues and concerns.
You Are the Hero of Your Story
Dental care is a partnership that requires the doctor and patient to work toward the same goal: good health. We will do our part by staying on top of the latest developments and technology in dentistry, and offering it to you and your loved ones. We will help you as much as possible on your journey toward lasting, good oral health.
It’s up to you to brush and floss, eat a healthy diet, drink adequate water, and call us for an appointment if you experience any abnormalities. Issues like pain, visible damage, soft tissue lesions, and bleeding gums are causes to call Signature Smile Arts for an appointment–even if it’s not time for your semi-annual checkup and cleaning. The earlier we find and address oral health concerns, the less invasive and costly the treatment usually is.
Do you have excessive cavities?
A cavity or two at your checkup should alert you to evaluate your home routine for oral healthcare, but there’s no real cause for concern once we fill or crown the teeth. If you have three, four, or more cavities at every checkup, we will help you sleuth out the underlying cause and brainstorm ways to correct the issues.
At your visit, please feel free to share all of your questions. We believe the more we understand about your oral health and lifestyle factors, the better equipped we’ll all be to reduce the number of cavities you see at checkups. Great oral health is within your grasp!
Call us today at (708) 799-5353 or schedule your consultation online now. We look forward to seeing your fabulous smile soon!
