Put simply, there are a lot of bacteria that is built up in your mouth – even though you can’t actually see it – and it needs food to live and grow. When you consume foods with sugar and starchy foods such as rice and pasta, the bacteria rejoices as it essentially feeds them. The process involves the bacteria producing acids from these types of foods which harm the enamel on your teeth.
The Dangers of Fermentable Carbohydrates
This might seem like a technical term, but it’s actually quite simple. There are certain foods which break down into ‘fermentable carbohydrates’ and can cause extensive damage to your teeth – especially in the long-term.
Some of these foods include:
· Pretzels
· Cakes
· Cookies
· Soft drinks
· Candy
· Crackers
· Bananas
· Potato chips; and,
· Breakfast cereals
The bacterium that resides in your mouth has the ability to break the sugar within these foods into acids. It’s the acids themselves that turn into mineral crystals and stick to your teeth almost like glue. Ultimately, the more you eat, the more you’re in danger of an ‘acid attack’ from these foods; and this leads to tooth decay.
It functions when the acid begins to dissolve the calcium and phosphate crystals inside your teeth. It’s common for white spots to appear in affected areas, although the actual loss of minerals will start affecting underneath the surface.
While the damage is permanent once the decay breaks through the layer of enamel (causing a cavity), it is important to go and visit a dentist as soon as possible because it’s best to treat it while still possible. Otherwise there is the potential for the decay to go all the way down to the nerve or pulp to the root of the tooth.
Types of Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay is a common teeth problem for many young children. This type of decay is known to impact tooth enamel very quickly and is the result of a child being put to bed with the bottle of juice still in their mouth. Obviously, juice is particular often contains a high amount of sugar which will undoubtedly speed up the process of decay.
Adults, or young adults, are at risk of getting cavities especially if the roots of their teeth are exposed. If an adult has receding gums – often caused by too much hard brushing – their chance of developing severe cavities increases. Likewise if they have periodontal disease – they are also at a greater risk.
Additionally, decay can also form benefit tooth repairs such as fillings and crowns; mainly due to bacteria which houses it underneath or between teeth. This can be prevented by flossing and brushing frequently.
If you’re finding trouble with your teeth, due to anything we discussed above, chances are you will need to pay a visit to the dentist to prevent problems from worsening. Call Wisdom Teeth Removal Sydney on 1300 217 858 to speak with a professional.