Dr. Spiro Condos is a trusted practitioner and educator, specializing in dental implants, general dentistry, and cosmetic procedures. Throughout his career, Dr. Condos has spent extensive time treating tooth loss. The methods to replace teeth have advanced dramatically over the years, but the underlying problems that cause tooth loss are largely unchanged. Tooth decay is the leading cause of tooth loss, and cavities are a precursor to advanced tooth decay. The best implant dentist in NYC can treat your dental concerns, but you can also take steps to prevent these issues from developing in the first place.

Learn about six factors that contribute to cavities, and what you should avoid so that you can protect your teeth and maintain your perfect smile.

Genetics Play a Role in Cavities

While we are going to get to some of the more obvious causes of cavities in the following sections, we shouldn’t ignore the role of genetics. Some people are simply more prone to cavities, and it’s nothing to do with diet, oral hygiene, or other controllable factors.

Genetics that relate to the formation of enamel, the balance of saliva in the mouth, and even immune responses can all affect cavities. If you have developed cavities in the past despite doing everything right to take care of your teeth, then genetics could be part of the problem.

The best way to combat a natural tendency to develop cavities is to take regular care of your teeth and schedule professional cleaning and checkups every six months. Problems detected early are more easily treated.

You Suffer from Bruxism and It’s Increasing the Risk of Tooth Decay

Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. If you grind your teeth, then you’ll be more likely to develop tooth decay. Constant grinding wears down the enamel of teeth, which can eventually expose the dentin. Grinding can also cause chips and cracks. When the dentin is exposed, teeth start to deteriorate from within. This is tooth decay.

There are ways to prevent tooth decay and other damage, even if you suffer from bruxism. Wearing a night guard or treating stress can reduce grinding. Sometimes, abnormalities in the jaw can cause bruxism, so surgery could be an option depending on your unique case.

You can get treatment for tooth decay with the best implant dentist in NYC. You can also get treatment for bruxism before tooth decay starts.

Poor Dietary Choices Might Cause a Visit to the Best Implant Dentist in NYC

One of the keys to good health is a varied and balanced diet. Your food choices can increase the risk of dental problems. Foods rich in sugar, starches, or acid can increase the risk of decay. Sticky food, like peanut butter, can remain on your teeth longer, attracting bacteria that produce acid.

Try to include more whole grains, leafy vegetables, crunchy vegetables, and crunchy fruits in your diet. Limiting acid, starch, and sugar will help to protect your smile, and limit the chance of needing extensive treatment or complete tooth replacement with the best implant dentist in NYC.

You Have Stomach Problems

Stomach problems like acute acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can increase the risk of damage to your teeth. The acid in your stomach is highly corrosive and can cause damage to tooth enamel. When it comes up to your throat and enters your mouth, it will start to degrade your teeth.

Book a consultation with your physician if you have frequent pain in your throat, find that you always need to clear your throat, have a constant annoying cough, or can feel or taste the acid coming up into your mouth. Treating GERD and other acid-related problems can significantly lower the risk of decay and cavities.

You Have Receding Gums

As you age, your gums will recede. If they recede too much, the roots and softer areas of your teeth will become exposed. Bacteria that multiply around and under the gums can lead to decay. If you have noticed your gums recede over time, you can book an appointment with the best implant dentist in NYC to explore your treatment options. In severe cases, grafting procedures can restore the tissue to protect your teeth.

You Aren’t Brushing and Flossing Regularly

Skipping brushing for whatever reason here and there isn’t a major problem. When it becomes habitual, it can be serious. Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice daily, rinse after meals and drinks, and floss after the last meal of the day. This will remove food debris and bacteria, and reduce plaque, ensuring that your teeth stay healthy.

If you don’t want to spend time getting extensive treatment for tooth decay with the best implant dentist in NYC, then it’s time to make a conscious effort to take care of your teeth.

See the Best Dentist in New York

You can prevent advanced tooth decay in many cases, but cavities can still occur. Even if tooth decay progresses, there are still options for treatment. Get the best care with a compassionate team at Dental Implant Center NYC. Book your appointment now and enjoy detailed care with the best implant dentist in NYC.