Cavities are something that most children get when they are younger. Children have a high tendency for tooth decay, but you might be surprised to find that adults get cavities just as much, if not more. Studies show that many adults don’t brush or floss their teeth each day. Some don’t even remember the last time they flossed and only about 65% of adults even see a dentist each year. These are just a few of the reasons that tooth decay is so prevalent in adults. Find out why adults get tooth decay so often and the simple habits that could rid adults of this disease for good!

Cavities In Children

Many children have had a cavity or two (or many more than that) during their lifetime. You too may have had many. Studies show that at least 90% of Americans have had cavities at some point in their life. It’s most common in childhood, as children tend to eat lots of sugary snacks without much brushing and flossing. Another factor as well is that the baby teeth are small and more delicate. Adult tooth decay may take longer to set in, but in the baby teeth, it can move quite rapidly.

Children also aren’t born with the knowledge or ability to brush and floss their teeth. It’s something that must be learned over the first few years. Parents must start brushing their children’s teeth as soon as that first tooth pops through the gums, and they have to do that several times a day. If not, a child will likely get tooth decay. Studies show that about 1 in 5 children don’t see a dentist and at least 40% of children have tooth decay before kindergarten. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry reports that tooth decay is the “most common chronic childhood disease”.

Adult Tooth Decay

Is it a surprise that adult tooth decay is so rampant if so many children have tooth decay? If children aren’t taught young and measures aren’t taken in the early years, adults tend to be just as bad, if not worse with tooth decay. Consider the facts:

• Only 65% or less of American adults visit the dentist each year.
• 5% of adults between 20 and 64 have no teeth, which is generally due to poor oral hygiene habits.
• 92% of adults in the same age group have tooth decay in their permanent teeth.
• 26% of them have not had their decay treated, so it continues to spread.
• Adult tooth decay is a disease that is 100% preventable if only people followed proper oral hygiene measures.

How Does This Happen?

Most people would assume that adults wouldn’t have a problem with tooth decay. However, life gets busier and busier as the years go by. Busy schedules can make it hard for adults to remember to brush and floss throughout the day. It also makes it hard to see the dentist. Skipping on these habits definitely leads to adult tooth decay.

Tooth decay happens in adults just like it does with children. When they eat, plaque starts to coat their teeth. Because plaque is always acidic, it will work to start eroding the teeth as soon as it’s stuck to the tooth enamel. That’s why it’s a constant battle to brush and floss the plaque away so you don’t get adult tooth decay. Adults simply don’t brush their teeth enough (or at all), and many don’t even remember the last time they flossed. It’s not a wonder adult tooth decay happens!

Options to Reduce Adult Tooth Decay

If you have been plagued by adult tooth decay, it’s not something that has to continue throughout the years. Adult tooth decay (and tooth decay in general) is considered a chronic, prevalent disease according to the National Institutes of Health. However, it’s a disease that you can easily stop and prevent from happening again. Follow these tips for stopping adult tooth decay in its tracks:

• Start brushing your teeth every day, at least twice a day, as recommended by the American Dental Association. If you really have a problem with adult tooth decay, consider brushing your teeth after every meal.
• Limit your sugar and soda intake. We’ve covered that plaque is made from sugar. The less sugar you consume, the less plaque you will make. Sodas are notorious for containing high amounts of sugar, plus they have carbonic acid, which will erode your tooth enamel. Cutting out large amounts of these from your diet will not only improve your health but will help stop adult tooth decay.
• Floss every single day. Adults don’t floss enough and it shows. Floss morning and night and whenever you feel you need to.
• See the dentist! Even if your schedule is incredibly busy, there is always time for a 40-minute exam and cleaning in a 6-month period. These dental visits are vital for catching adult tooth decay and for stopping it in its tracks.
• Make a schedule. If you struggle to remember to brush and floss, make signs where you will see them (such as the bathroom mirror). You can even make a reminder or alarm on your phone or watch to remind you to take care of your teeth.
• Take a travel kit with you. Whether at work, on vacation or even at home, take a small kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and other oral hygiene products. You can take care of your teeth anywhere you go, and you’ll see your oral health improve.

If it’s been a while since we’ve seen you for your exam and cleaning, call Mountain Aire Dentistry today at (303) 731-7755!