Facts and myths about cavities

Cavities are dental caries that cause damage to the tooth, resulting in tooth decay.  Here are some of the most common myths and facts about cavities most people are unaware of:

The only things that causes cavity is sugar

Myth: The main cause of cavities is acid producing bacteria inside the mouth. Decay can be instigated by any carbs you eat. This includes sugar as well as potatoes, rice, fruits, bread, and vegetables.

Kids are more susceptible to cavities than adults

Myth: Due to the presence of fluoride in tap water, decay in school-aged children has reduced by half in the past two decades. On the other hand, cavities in seniors are on the rise due to medicines that tend to make the mouth dry. They decrease saliva, which is known to protect your teeth.   

Acid can cause tooth decay

Fact: Acidic food items have the ability to break down the outer shell of your tooth, weaken it, and make it prone to decay. 

The bacteria that cause tooth decay generate acids inside the mouth. Consuming foods such as soda and juice can enhance that process. Hence, it’s important to follow healthy eating habits.

Aspirin helps a toothache when placed next to the tooth

Myth: Aspirin needs to be swallowed if you want it to work. Since it is acidic, it can burn your gum tissue and may also cause an abscess if you put it next to your tooth.

You’ll know as soon as you have a tooth cavity

Myth: When you see a tooth cavity it has normally spread to a great extent. To avoid such instances, it is best to undergo routine dental screening. With regular checkups, your dental expert can find a cavity before it may cause damage.

All Fillings have to be replaced

Myth: There is no life expectancy to filings, but it may depend on things such as oral hygiene and tooth wear. If you keep good oral habits then you become less likely to have dental problems, and your fillings also last longer.

Decay stops once a tooth is treated 

Fact: As soon as you get your cavity filled, the decay spot gets removed. From here on forward, if you take good care of your teeth, the decay from the filled spot will certainly stay clear.  

Grinding and clenching can create cavities

Myth: As mentioned above, cavities are mainly caused by acid-producing bacteria. However, grinding and clenching are some of the worst things that you can do to your teeth.

With normal chewing, our teeth tap for a tiny millisecond, which creates little stress. But grinding and clenching can put a lot of pressure on your teeth. The tension can eventually create fractures and cracks on your teeth, speeding up tooth decay. 

Cavities generally happen between the teeth

 Fact: Places where bacteria can hide or areas that are hard to clean with a floss or toothbrush are likely to cause decay. It is best to use a mouthwash to reach those tough spots.

Tips for safe tooth whitening

The booming teeth-whitening business has made dazzling smiles within everyone's reach. From DIY strips to in-office treatments, you have a variety of options for polishing up darkened or stained teeth. Fortunately, side effects aren't that common when you use over the counter products, but they may happen. Hence, before beginning a do-it-yourself teeth whitening routine, make sure you know how to keep your teeth safe.

Talk to your dentist:

It is wise to get a mouth exam and professional cleaning before whitening your teeth at home. Your dentist will also check the over-all health of your gums and look for cavities during the examination. Treating any oral problem before the whitening procedure is good for your dental health.

You can also ask your dentist for advice on which over-the-counter treatment to use.

Be wise when shopping

At-home whitening agents contain peroxides in quantities ranging from 10 to 20%.Select a product that has a peroxide level anywhere in the middle of the aforementioned range. If the item doesn’t irritate your mouth but does not offer the shade you want, you can buy a higher level. However, it is best to show the product to your dentist to be on the safer side.

Do as instructed

Do not leave the gels or strips on longer than instructed -- you may end up with sore gums and other oral problems.  Also, few hours after whitening, avoid sports drinks, soda, or other acidic drinks to keep your teeth protected.

Protect sensitive teeth

Teeth have the tendency to become sensitive after undergoing whitening. However, sensitivity may be less if your teeth and gums are healthy. Remember, if whitening treatment aggravates gum irritability, stop the process right away and speak to your doctor.

Ill-fitted gel-filled trays that have to be worn like a mouth guard can also trouble your gums. Hence, be careful of the fitting. 

When to avoid teeth whitening?

Nursing and pregnant women should avoid teeth whitening. Also, patients with composite and porcelain bondings and dental crowns should avoid in-home teeth whitening. It is best to consult a professional to ensure there are no side effects or uneven smiles.

Avoid overdoing it:

How much is too much? If you get good results by following the instructions, a once-a-month session is normally enough. Once your teeth reach the whiteness you like, you will have to repeat the bleaching session twice a year.

There are a variety of teeth whitening products and systems including over-the-counter gels, whitening toothpastes, rinses, trays and strips, available in the market. Teeth whitening is perfect for those who have unrestored, healthy gums and teeth. People with yellow shades of teeth respond well, but this procedure is not advised for everyone. It is best to talk to your dentist before taking any step. It is also recommended to go for in-office treatment under the supervision of a professional rather than using DIY products. This ensures that your oral health remains intact and protected at all times. The best way to find out about professional teeth whitening procedures is to research online.