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Active Acids. It's a fact that the outer enamel layer of
your teeth is one of the hardest substances in your body. And it's
a good thing, since you need to use your teeth every day of your
life, for years on end. Despite this inherent toughness of design,
however, there is a common and stealthy enemy that knows just how
to destroy your enamel. That enemy is tooth decay.
Here's why tooth decay is so sneaky and successful. Your mouth
is filled with a constant supply or normal oral bacteria. These
bacteria produce a sticky substance called 'plaque' which they deposit
on your teeth. Carbohydrates such as milk, soda pop, raisins, cake,
candy or any other sugary substance combine with the plaque to form
a strong type of acid. And this acid simply eats away at your enamel,
destroying it a little at a time. And it's not particular about
your age.
Aging Adults. While young children often struggle with tooth
decay due to poor brushing habits or too many sweets, adults need
to be wary about it as well. First of all, aging can cause gum recession,
leading to gum disease. So not only is the tooth enamel exposed
to plaque, the unprotected 'cementum' tissue covering the tooth
root is exposed as well. Cementum is even more susceptible to tooth
decay, as well as to hot, cold, and touch.
Furthermore, while growing up, many of our current older adults
didn't have the benefit of fluoride or modern preventive dental
care. Therefore, they typically have quite a few fillings. These
fillings can fracture, leak and accumulate bacteria, allowing tooth
decay to eat away at the enamel underneath. Plus, older people often
have tooth decay in hard to reach places, such as the edges or margins
of their teeth.
Protection & Prevention. Of course, you've heard the
constant reminders from your dentist about 'brushing, flossing,
and visiting the dentist regularly'. Well, now you can see how wise
that advice is. Tooth decay is almost entirely preventable if you're
willing to brush properly with a fluoride toothpaste after every
meal, floss daily, and eat nutritiously while avoiding snacks. Further
protective measures might include requesting additional fluoride
treatments, asking about dental sealants to cover your chewing surfaces,
and having advanced periodontal cleanings more frequently as you
age.
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