Smile! Oh, no, no, wait, don’t smile.
This is never something you want to hear especially when you are getting professional photos taken.
Rotting teeth can make you feel self-conscious to the point that you don’t even want to look at your teeth let alone let someone take a photo of them.
What are some causes of rotting teeth and what can you do to avoid this issue from occurring?
If you consume a lot of sugar it can promote the growth of bad bacteria. The bacteria then begin to take over, eventually creating plaque that deteriorates your enamel. The more sugar you consume, the more you will witness your teeth slowly crumble away.
If you eat a lot of carbohydrates, this too can be a cause of your rotting teeth. The carbs do the same thing as sugar, creating acids that allow for plaque to form and enamel to dissipate.
Eat foods that will allow your teeth to grow stronger such as fish and drink plenty of water. The omega 3s and vitamin D in fish are great for your oral and general health. Water helps gets rid of any loose food particles left hanging in your mouth after you brush and floss, keeping your mouth constantly clean.
Do you avoid brushing your teeth before bed? Are you too lazy to floss in between your molars? Bad oral hygiene habits like these can result in rotting teeth. How? The foods you consume remain in your mouth, allowing negative bacteria to form and after time, erode your teeth away.
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to ensure you get all those bacteria forming leftovers out of your mouth and away from your precious enamel. Go to the dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings, ensuring your teeth stay in top shape. Getting issues fixed before they become a major concern will prevent a rotten smile.
Yes, fluoride can be bad for you if you take in too much of it but it is also beneficial for your oral health. This natural mineral is often in your drinking water and is a key ingredient in many kinds of toothpaste you buy. It helps keep away rotting teeth by building strong enamel so you can keep smiling. If you avoid using fluoride altogether, you limit the protection level it can provide to help fight off bacteria.
All these things can help you prevent rotting teeth but what happens when your teeth have already rotted beyond repair?
Your dentist will be able to examine your oral cavity and let you know the best course of action for your scenario. You might be a good candidate for a dental implant or bridge. You might even be able to consider a root canal. A dentist can give you a world of options for an empty mouth.
There is always a way to get your smile back. Stoney Trail Dental knows how to repair, replace and rebuild rotten teeth and wants to help you feel confident every minute of every day.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Gurshant Grewal - a Registered Dentist on January 9, 2020
