What’s Causing Me To Get So Many Cavities?

Dental cavities, also known as dental caries, are common dental problems that people of all ages can experience. A cavity is an area of tooth decay that develops in the tooth enamel.

While some people get a lot of cavities, others get very few. If you have been getting quite a few cavities, there could be many reasons for your problem. Your dentist in Lyndhurst, OH, can help you determine the potential cause of your cavities. 

What Causes Cavities?

Generally speaking, many people get dental cavities because of a combination of eating sugary foods, drinking sugary drinks, and using weak oral hygiene habits. However, some people are more vulnerable to cavities and may get this problem more than others. Some examples of things that can put you at high risk for cavities: 

• Dry mouth. Dry mouth can be caused by medications, personal habits and various medical conditions. Dry mouth can lead to cavities because saliva helps clean your teeth and prevent problems like cavities. In fact, some chemotherapy drugs can increase your risk of cavities because chemotherapy can lead to dry mouth. 
• Age. Both young people and older people are at high risk for cavities. If you’re older and have suddenly started to get more cavities than in your younger years, this could be a result of your age. 
• Stomach acid from heartburn or eating disorders. Stomach acid can wear away your tooth enamel, leading to more cavities over time. If you have heartburn or if you have an eating disorder that leads to frequent vomiting, then you could be at increased risk for cavities. 

Since there are so many potential reasons that you could be at high risk for cavities, it may be hard to find out why this is a problem for you unless you speak with your dentist. 

What Can I Do to Prevent Cavities?

You can help prevent cavities by maintaining good oral hygiene and by working with your dentist to take good care of your teeth. See your dentist regularly for dental exams in Lyndhurst, OH.

Most dentists recommend their patients visit every six months unless otherwise directed. Your dentist at Lyndhurst Family Dental can help. Call today to make an appointment.