Are you worried that your teeth are rotting and breaking? If so, you’re not alone. Tooth decay and fractures are common dental concerns, but they don’t have to be.
Understanding the causes of these issues and how to address them can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind tooth rot and breakage and offer solutions for prevention and treatment.
Causes of Tooth Decay and Breakage
The causes of tooth decay and breakage are multifactorial and depend on a host of reasons that may differ from person to person. Let us briefly discuss these causes and when to see the dentist.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate oral hygiene is one of the primary causes of tooth decay and breakage. When you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque and bacteria accumulate on your teeth, leading to cavities and weakened enamel. Cavities can cause teeth to break and create further complications if left untreated.
Acidic Foods and Beverages
Acidic foods and beverages, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and soft drinks, can erode the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and breakage.
Consuming these items in moderation and rinsing your mouth with water after consumption can help mitigate damage to your teeth.
Systemic Diseases
Individuals who suffer from gastric issues like GERD can experience erosion and breakage of their front teeth due to continuous exposure to acidic reflux from the stomach.
Moreover, people with diabetes often have decayed teeth and deteriorating periodontal health. This is due to hyposalivation, which makes the saliva more concentrated in sucrose, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Unhealthy Habits
Unhealthy habits can also contribute to tooth decay and breakage. These include smoking, drinking, and consuming candies and junk, all of which increase the risk of caries and breakage.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause significant damage to your teeth. Over time, the excessive pressure from grinding wears down the enamel and can lead to cracks, fractures, and, eventually, breakage. Bruxism is often a result of stress or anxiety, so addressing the root cause is essential for long-term relief.
Trauma or Injury
Accidents, sports injuries, or any other trauma to the mouth can cause teeth to crack or break. Wearing a mouthguard during sports activities and taking precautions to avoid falls or accidents can help protect your teeth from damage.
Prevention and Treatment
These dental issues can be easily avoided by implementing simple lifestyle changes and paying more attention to your dental health.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent tooth decay and breakage.
Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This will help keep your teeth strong and healthy, reducing the risk of decay and breakage.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet that includes calcium-rich foods, like dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts, can help strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.
Limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages will also reduce the risk of enamel erosion and subsequent tooth decay.
Eliminate Unhealthy Habits
Limiting or completely eliminating the habits that harm your teeth will prove highly beneficial for the health of your pearly white teeth.
Avoid consuming alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and binging on sugary candies and snacks.
Use a Custom Night Guard
Your dentist may recommend a custom night guard if you suffer from bruxism. This dental appliance, worn while you sleep, can help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching.
Addressing the underlying causes of bruxism, such as stress or anxiety, can help alleviate the problem.
Protect Your Teeth
If you participate in contact sports or other activities that pose a risk to your teeth, wear a mouthguard to protect them from injury. A custom-fit mouthguard from your dentist will provide the best protection and fit comfortably in your mouth.
Seek Prompt Dental Treatment
If you notice any signs of tooth decay or breakage, it’s crucial to seek prompt dental treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and the need for more extensive and costly treatments.
Common signs of tooth decay and breakage include toothaches, sensitivity, and visible cracks or chips in your teeth.
Key Takeaway
Tooth decay and breakage can be distressing, but understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures can help you maintain a healthy smile.
Proper oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental checkups can minimise the risk of tooth decay and damaged or broken teeth.
Looking for a Consult?
If you’re concerned about your teeth rotting and breaking away. Then look no further than Vue Dental. We’ll treat your teeth to cure them of any disease and restore their functionality!
Our state-of-the-art dental office has the latest equipment and a highly qualified team of dental practitioners who can address all your dental issues.
Get a consult with Dr Keshavi Patel today by calling us at 512-888-9340 or book an appointment online via our website. We offer all sorts of dental services, so feel free to contact us with any queries about your oral health!