Caries is the second most common health disorder, placing next to the common cold. Although caries usually appear in children and young
adults, even full-fledged adults can also get dental caries. The problem once you develop caries is that when it remains untreated, the affected area grows larger and may lead to severe toothache, infection or even tooth loss. In order for you to better prevent the development of dental caries, it is a good idea to learn what the reasons are behind their occurrence. Take a look at the top ten possible reasons for getting dental caries:

Drinking sugar-filled beverages. If you’re fond of drinking beverages, bottled drinks and sodas which are sugar-filled, there is a greater risk of you developing dental caries. This is especially true when you don’t brush your teeth or rinse your mouth after drinking – because the sugar and acid remains on your mouth and wear down the enamel of your teeth.

Frequent snacking. Similar to being fond of sugary drinks, frequent snacking is yet another culprit of caries or tooth decay. In fact, there are certain foods and drinks which are more likely than others to cause caries.

Having a dry mouth. There is such a thing as people who have dry mouth as a result of the lack of saliva. In between brushing, saliva is what washes away the food and plaque from your teeth – so if you have dry mouth, you are more likely to develop caries.

Incorrect, weak or rough dental fillings. Unfortunately, the dental fillings which your dentist gave you tend to corrode over the years. As they begin to break down, plaque is more likely to build up which will cause caries in the end.

Old age. If elderly people still have their own teeth, they are actually more prone to developing caries because teeth can wear down over the years.

Poor oral hygiene. Infrequent or improper brushing and failing to floss regularly is the most common cause of dental caries – so make sure to always maintain good oral hygiene.

Plaque formation. The mouth contains bacteria which thrive on food and drinks. When the residues of these foods are not removed from your mouth, they cause a sticky film to be developed on your teeth – which will later on lead to plaque formation.

Receding gums. Those who have gingivitis, other gum problems and those whose gums recede as a result of old age are also more prone to developing caries. This is because when the cementum or the natural coating on the root of your tooth is removed, it can decay more easily and quickly.

Smoking. Heavy smokers usually have yellow teeth which are also prone to developing caries – as a result of the nicotine and tar content of cigarettes.

The location of the tooth affected by caries. Your back teeth are actually more prone to having dental caries because these are the hard-to-reach areas when brushing. If you don’t take extra care to remove the food particles from these, plaque can build up and destroy the enamel, which further leads to dental caries.

Now that you already have an idea about the possible causes of dental caries, it is much easier for you to know how to prevent them and keep your set of pearly whites healthy and looking good all the time.