Another Cavity? Why Me?!

HEALTH

There are other factors involved for some people, including: • Stomach issues like acid reflux

ANOTHERcavity ? IT’S FUN TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT all the options you have for a smile makeover with porcelain veneers or moving your teeth into perfect alignment with clear aligners. But often the most important conversation we have is discussing the many possible reasons people are still getting cavities as adults. Over 90% of adults aged 2064 have had cavities develop in their permanent teeth. WHY me?! LKNEXPERT • Clenching or grinding the teeth • Teeth that developed with poor enamel (easy to blame but not very common) • Chronic dry mouth – often caused by medications Most people are very aware that brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are very important in fighting both cavities and gum disease. Almost all of us brush regularly, and we know statistically about 25% of everyone flosses daily … moving on! What we coat our teeth with everyday has a big impact. Most people know that more sugar equals more cavities. Many people really watch their sugar intake and still get cavities! This is where it gets interesting. Exposure to acids is the factor many don’t consider. Many foods, drinks, and candy are flavored with acids. Citric acid is very common and one of the worst for teeth. Many diet drinks and flavored waters have significant amounts of citric acid. Even though they may have no sugar, they will soften your enamel and allow small amounts of sugar to cause cavities. This is why citrus flavor drinks, citrus fruit, and sour candy are so bad for your teeth if allowed with enough frequency. Unfortunately, not even diet drinks are tooth-friendly. Fortunately, if you take some proactive steps in reducing your risk with any or all of these factors, you should get less cavities. Teeth can handle quite a lot, and everyone has a different tipping point. The important thing is trying to stay below yours! w

Bryan Persinger, DDS, has been serving the community for more than 20 years, and you can reach him and his team at Waterside Dental Care at 704.951.8300. Their offices are located at 175 Cross Center Road in Denver. With convenient hours that won’t make you miss work or school, Waterside Dental sees patients 7am-7pm (Weekdays & Saturdays). Online scheduling is available via their website at www.WatersideDentalCare.com.