Susceptibility To Cavities

Last updated: Jan 04, 2009

	Susceptibility To Cavities

Signs, symptoms & indicators of Susceptibility To Cavities:

	Symptoms - Head - Mouth/Oral Counter-indicators:   Not having any cavities

Risk factors for Susceptibility To Cavities:

	Autoimmune   Sjogren's Syndrome Hormones   Hypoparathyroidism   Hypoparathyroidism causes weakened tooth enamel in children.

Recommendations for Susceptibility To Cavities:

	Dental   Oral Hygiene   Proper oral home care on your part and properly spaced dental hygiene prevention appointments will go a long way in reducing your opportunity to have new decay begin. Diet   Sugars Avoidance / Reduction   Plaque begins to accumulate on teeth within 20 minutes after eating (the time when most bacterial activity occurs). If this plaque is not removed thoroughly and routinely, tooth decay will not only begin, but flourish. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the tooth and create holes in the tooth (cavities). Sugars and starches increase the risk of tooth decay. Sticky foods are more harmful than nonsticky foods because they remain on the surface of the teeth. Frequent snacking increases the time that acids are in contact with the surface of the tooth. Digestion   Chewing Gum   Xylitol gum is the healthy gum that is good for your teeth. Xylitol is the natural sweetener used in chewing gum, mints and toothpaste that has the ability to fight cavities and dental plaque. It has received official endorsements from six national dental associations around the world because of its effectiveness. Personally, I don't chew gum. Once a day, I place a small amount of toothpaste on the end of my toothbrush and then dip it into a small container of xylitol (available by the pound in a health food store or even some supermarkets), and them brush the teeth. Xylitol can also be substituted (perhaps up to 50%) when a baking recipe calls for sugar. Mineral   Magnesium   Magnesium is helpful in preventing some problems of the teeth, including cavities. For these purposes, a daily dose of 50mg of vitamin B6 and 200-300mg of magnesium is often given. Vitamins   Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

KEY

		Strong or generally accepted link
		Very strongly or absolutely counter-indicative
		May do some good
		Likely to help
		Highly recommended