Around 20% of children between 5 and 11 years old have at least one untreated decayed tooth, and 9 out of 10 adults over the age of 20 have some level of tooth decay. Toothaches, dentist dread, and those nagging worries about your smile—it seems like tooth decay is everywhere. We've all heard how sugar rots your teeth, but guess what? It's not the whole story.  

Many families struggle with cavities; tooth decay is more complicated than most realize. Factors like how often you snack, certain medications, and even where you live can make a big difference. Understanding the natural causes is the first step towards healthier smiles for the whole family. Keep reading this blog for more.

How Tooth Decay Happens

Tooth decay is a straightforward problem caused by excessive sugar consumption and inadequate brushing.  However, it is a prevalent oral disease with multiple complex causes. It affects a significant number of adults between the ages of 20 and 64, with a staggering 90% being affected. As a result, tooth decay costs the economy $45.9 billion in lost productivity.

Plaque, the colorless film that constantly forms on teeth, consists of bacteria that thrive on sugars and starches in your foods. These bacteria produce acids as a byproduct of their metabolism.

Over time, these acids can demineralize your teeth' enamel or hard outer layer, leading to tooth decay. While saliva naturally works to counteract this process, frequent or prolonged acid exposure can lead to areas of permanent damage.

Several factors beyond brushing habits and sugary foods and drinks influence your susceptibility to decay. These include Medications that cause dry mouth, medical conditions, natural aging, and weakened enamel, which can leave your teeth less protected.

For example, Suboxone, a medicine often used for treating opioid use disorder, is linked to tooth decay and dental injuries. Studies have found that Suboxone is acidic, with a 3.4 pH level when dissolved in water. This pH level is the same as soda and energy drinks. 

Individuals who used Suboxone films have reported experiencing weakened tooth enamel, which increases the probability of developing tooth decay. As a result, some people unaware of these side effects have filed a Suboxone lawsuit against the manufacturer, citing inadequate warnings to healthcare professionals and consumers regarding possible side effects.

According to TorHoerman Law, Indivior Solutions (the manufacturer of Suboxone) faced criminal and civil liability for promoting Suboxone and paid a settlement of over $600 million in 2020. 

It's Especially Hard for Kids

If you think protecting baby teeth might be less critical since they fall out anyway. You’re wrong! According to the CDC, around 10% of children aged 2 to 5 have untreated cavities, and more than half of children aged 6 to 8 have had a cavity in their baby (primary) teeth at least once. 

Tooth decay in baby teeth makes kids more likely to have problems with their permanent teeth. Toothaches can also lead to missed school, trouble eating, and loss of productivity. On average, children lose over 34 million school hours each year due to dental emergencies.

It can be challenging to get kids to eat healthy. Some kids are picky eaters, while others may have trouble with certain foods. When mealtime becomes a fight, it's easy to give in to their craving for sugary treats to make them cooperate.

Hidden sugar is another big issue. Many processed foods, even ones that seem "healthy," like certain juice boxes or yogurt, contain more sugar than we realize. This constant grazing means those nasty bacteria produce acid all day, attacking tooth enamel.

Children's teeth are naturally smaller and have thinner enamel than adults. This makes them more vulnerable to sugary foods. Additionally, young children may find it challenging to brush and floss properly independently, even if they are enthusiastic about it. 

What Works to Prevent Tooth Decay

We know that brushing twice a day and flossing are essential. But honestly, it can feel like an uphill battle. The key is consistency. Even imperfect brushing is better than no brushing. Make it non-negotiable and part of every morning and bedtime routine.

Fluoride is a true tooth savior for you. According to NIDCR, it helps strengthen enamel, prevent mineral loss, and even reverse early tooth decay. Make sure you drink fluoridated water and brush with toothpaste that has fluoride. A dentist may suggest fluoride supplements for kids or in-office treatments if fluoridated water supply is low.

Additionally, early visits to the dentist can help you and your child get used to the office and catch potential problems early when treatment is more accessible. Regular cleanings remove buildup you can't reach at home, further protecting your teeth.

FAQs

Is 20 Cavities a Lot?

Yes, 20 cavities are a significant number. While the average person might experience a few cavities over their lifetime, 20 indicates a severe issue with oral health.

Which Is the Best Toothpaste for Cavities?

The best toothpaste for cavities is one that contains fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids that cause decay.

Is It Possible for Clove Oil to Cure Tooth Decay?

No, clove oil cannot cure tooth decay. While it may temporarily reduce toothache pain, clove oil doesn't address the actual damage to the tooth.

How Can I Rebuild My Tooth Enamel Naturally?

While you cannot wholly regrow lost enamel, you can strengthen and remineralize it by boosting saliva production, getting enough calcium and Vitamin D, and regularly using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.

Wrapping up, we all should admit that the problem of tooth decay can feel overwhelming. Cost, confusing information, past bad experiences, there are many things to deal with. But remember, you are your advocate. Only try to overhaul some things at a time. Pick one thing from this blog today, such as scheduling a checkup or trying a new fluoride toothpaste. It all matters.