Lifestyle Changes That Can Lead To Cavities

21 July 2019
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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If you've done a good job over the years taking care of your mouth, teeth, and gums, news that you have a cavity is alarming. However, learning that you have multiple cavities is frightening. If you've heard this news, there is a reason why, and it's important you get to the bottom of the matter.

Schedule Changes

Are you going back to school? Have you been promoted to a new position that requires longer hours? A yes to either of these questions means you're busier now than you had been in the past. When people are busy, they are often more likely to make bad food choices, like carb-heavy French fries and sugary coffee drinks. Quick food is generally not healthy food. You can help prevent future cavities by preparing healthy meals at the start of the week that you can just grab on the go.

Intense Workout Plan

If you're working hard to reach your body goals, your new intense workout plan might even be contributing to your cavity problem. Intense workouts cause dry mouth, even for people that are in great shape. Dry mouth means that there is a lack of saliva flowing through your mouth. Saliva helps clear and neutralize cavity-causing bacteria naturally found in the mouth, which could be the source of your problem. Keep a water bottle nearby to prevent dry mouth during exercise. 

Bottled Water Consumption

With so many issues going on with tap water, it's easy to understand why some people would prefer to stick exclusively with bottled water. However, tap water can sometimes be healthier for your oral health. Many municipalities include fluoride deposits in the water supply. Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and correct tooth decay, which is precisely what a cavity is. Bottled water is fine when you're on the go but drinking tap water on occasion is also a good idea. 

Homemade Product Regimen

If you prefer the natural approach when it comes to the products that you use on your body, there is nothing wrong with this choice. However, make sure that the products are effective. If you perform a quick search for homemade toothpaste or mouthwash, you're sure to find all sorts of recipes, but some of these solutions are useless. As a result, you might be brushing with the equivalent of water. Let your dentist see the ingredient list to help you determine if the solution is effective. 

It's important to understand that just as no two people are alike, neither is their oral health. What causes a cavity for one person might not be as much of an issue for the next. It's best to speak with your family dentistry professional about your specific concerns.