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Today we're talking about cavities, your dentist's best friend!

We will be delving into...

• The Lowdown on Cavities: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Smile Healthy

• 7 Practical Tips for Preventing Cavities and Maintaining Dental Health

• Cavities: A Journey Through History and Controversy

The Lowdown on Cavities: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Smile Healthy

Have you ever wondered what exactly goes on in your mouth when you develop a cavity? Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are common dental problems that can affect anyone, no matter their age.

Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars and starches from food particles left behind on your teeth. As these tiny critters digest the sugars, they produce acid as a byproduct. Over time, this acid can wear away the protective outer layer of your tooth, called the enamel.

The good news is that by maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine, you can protect your teeth from cavities and ensure your smile stays bright and healthy. Take a look at more tips below!

7 Practical Tips for Preventing Cavities and Maintaining Dental Health

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush twice a day for two minutes each time and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.

2. Limit snacking: Frequent snacking increases the exposure of teeth to sugar and acid, leading to tooth decay. Instead, eat balanced meals and limit snacking between meals.

3. Avoid sugary and starchy foods: Consuming too much sugar and starch can lead to cavities, cancer, and restless leg syndrome. Instead, opt for whole foods with minimal added sugars.

4. Maintain a neutral pH: The enzyme amylase in our saliva helps prevent cavities, but it requires a neutral pH to work effectively. Avoid acidic foods and drinks that lower the pH in the mouth.

5. Use baking soda and fluoride treatments: Baking soda helps neutralize acid and reduce bacteria in the mouth, while fluoride strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities.

6. Consider the ketogenic diet: Eliminating sugar and starch from the diet is crucial to preventing cavities, and the ketogenic diet can help achieve this. It is beneficial for people of all ages, including children.

7. Combine strategies: Dental sealants and fluoride treatments can be used in conjunction with a healthy diet to prevent cavities. However, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of prevention.

Random Health Facts About Sugar & Dental Health

Cavities: A Journey Through History and Controversy

Cavities have been causing pain and discomfort throughout human history, dating back to the earliest evidence of tooth decay in a 14,000-year-old tooth discovered in modern-day Morocco. The history of dental cavities is a fascinating tale of our evolving diets, oral hygiene practices, and scientific breakthroughs.

Today, we have access to effective prevention and treatment methods, but cavities still remain a widespread dental issue, affecting approximately 2.3 billion people globally each year. Two prominent opinions on the causes of cavities have emerged over time:

•  The science-backed theory recognizes that cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on sugar and carbohydrates, leading to tooth decay. This is why regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth. 

• On the other hand, a controversial view is that cavities are caused by nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of fat-soluble vitamins. While maintaining a balanced diet is essential for overall health, there is limited evidence to support this theory as the primary cause of cavities. 

To measure cavity prevalence, dentists often use the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth) index, which evaluates the dental health of a population. By understanding the history and causes of cavities, we can continue to make strides in improving dental health worldwide.

TL;DR: In today's newsletters, we delved into Cavities caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on sugars and starches left on teeth. By maintaining proper oral hygiene, limiting snacking, and avoiding sugary foods, you can prevent cavities and maintain a healthy smile. Remember to brush and floss regularly, and consider a ketogenic diet for added benefits.

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