“She laughs at everything you say. Why? Because she has fine teeth.”

- Benjamin Franklin

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Unhealthy Diet

Consuming food and drinks that have

carbohydrates, especially snacking between

meals, will increase the risk of tooth decay.

Most of us have a conception that only sweet

and sticky foods and drinks like chocolates,

sugar, sweets, fizzy drinks, etc. cause tooth

decay. But, many of us are not aware that

starchy foods like biscuits, white bread and

foods that contain high carbohydrates also

causes tooth decay.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Not brushing and flossing the teeth regularly

will undoubtedly cause tooth decay. It is

recommended to brush your teeth at least

twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.

Regular brushing and flossing reduces the risk

of tooth decay by 25%.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is also known as Xerostomia. Lack

of saliva causes dry mouth. The purpose of

saliva is to reduce the acid attack on your

teeth and keep them clean. Thus, if you have

lower levels of saliva, your teeth are easily

exposed to acid thus, causing tooth decay.

Smoking and Alcohol

There is an increased risk of tooth decay in

people who smoke and drink alcohol

regularly. This is because tobacco reduces

the production of saliva that is responsible

to keep your teeth clean and free from acid

and alcohol contributes to the erosion of

tooth enamel.

Contact Bozeman Dental Associates:

Phone: (406) 586-9621

Website: www.bozemandentalassoc.com