The Soft Teeth Myth: Confronting the True Causes of Tooth Decay

The term “soft teeth” is nothing more than a myth, asserts Dentistry in Streetsville, a family dental clinic located in a village in Mississauga. Instead, what is known as “soft teeth” is actually caused by conditions that are fundamental to factors of health, diet, disease and dental care.

“Soft teeth” is a phrase that’s often used to describe teeth that are prone to decay and sensitivity. It is a widespread expression that simply isn’t true. The reality is that you are in control of the health of your teeth through proper home dental care, your overall health and diet, and regular visits to the dentist.

The first myth to be busted here is about cavities being inevitable. The reality is that cavities are preventable. Despite what you’ve heard, any apparent predisposition to cavities is not due to the soft teeth myth. You are in control of your dental health! Even if every member of your family and predecessors did or do suffer from cavities, this does not mean that you will as well. 

Any cavities a person experiences are caused by bacteria. The presence of this bacterium can be due to a poor or inappropriate regimen of oral hygiene for an individual’s specific needs. Other factors will inevitably be involved, such as diet - which may include drinking sweetened drinks or eating sugary foods, as well as problems associated with things like smoking, and so forth.

But there’s more: Part of the misconception of soft teeth is also due to the fact that tooth decay has been shown to be an infectious disease. In fact, it’s true that tooth decay in young children is a common childhood disease. This cause of tooth decay can occur due to certain strains of bacteria that live in the mouth. When mothers have this particular bacteria, and particularly if they have fillings or cavities, then bacteria can be passed to their infants through saliva, which can be contaminated, for example, through a feeding spoon or pacifier

Add to this the fact that bacteria in the mouth love sugar. This should be a heads-up to parents or for anyone wanting to improve their oral health. Sugar, sweetened foods, and even fruit juices pose a risk to the teeth. In addition to unwanted bacteria, improper dental care and diet can all become a recipe for cavities, tooth sensitivity and other problems.

It is for these various reasons that it becomes imperative to consult on a regular basis with our dentist, who understands your health profile and lifestyle. Some of the factors that impact the risk of things like tooth decay and gum disease can come down to the effects of a sugary diet, smoking, poor oral hygiene, nervous habits (like grinding the teeth) and so on.

Those who live in Mississauga and surrounding regions can learn more about proper dental care and developing theright oral hygiene program by consulting with Dentistry in Streetsville. Our clinic provides a broad range of dental services that include cleanings, fillings, veneers, bonding, dentures and more, including family dentistry.

Contact us at Dentistry in Streetsville by calling 905-821-8221 or emailing reception@dentistryinstreetsville.com. Dentistry in Streetsville is located at 100 Queen Street South, Suite 101, in Mississauga. Also, visit us on Facebook and Instagram at DentistryInStreetsville.