While the research about exact numbers is still underway,
there are 700 types of bacteria that are present in our mouths. They are
everywhere from inner cheek lining to saliva to palate to our tongue. It may be
interesting for you to know that they can double their amounts in every 5
hours. With this fact in mind, it becomes pretty understandable why our teeth
get a layer of a film developed on their surface. Now, the bacterial balance in
our mouths is balanced by saliva which washes away the excess bacteria. But
this process of washing away is done in the day time. When you sleep, the
saliva production is slowed down. This lack of saliva allows bacterial balance
to get disturbed.
Now, it may be worth mentioning here that not all types of
oral bacteria are harmful. In fact, most types tend to coexist with the
viruses, fungi and protozoa. However, the major damage is done by a few bad
characters which surely make the term ‘bacteria’ to be perceived as something
problematic. Now, it may be interesting for you that cavity and gum disease are
actually the infections which result due to the action of only a few strains of
bacteria.
Sugar is the main culprit
Yes, you heard it right. It is mainly due to the fact that
bacteria need energy to survive. If you provide bad bacteria with fermentable
carbohydrates, they are most likely to take control of the bacterial balance of
your oral cavity. Note that various forms of sugar have these carbohydrates
which the bad bacteria need in order to do what they do. When these bacteria
are provided with this sustenance, they release an acidic waste which can be
pretty harmful for the enamel of your teeth.
If you have ever seen acid being poured on concrete, the
reaction between concrete and acid could give you a nice demonstration
regarding what acidic waste can do to your teeth. However, it doesn’t happen in
days. The consistent attack of acid on the teeth can make tooth enamel to be
eroded. This consistent attack can lead to the opening of a cavity.
The acidic waste damages not only the tooth enamel but also
the gum lining. This irritation in the gums can lead to the enhanced
vulnerability of gums against bacterial attack. As a result, gum disease may
start to appear.
Although you can always go for the treatment of cavities and
gum disease, there is a way you can avoid the occurrences of these infections
by taking care of your oral health in a proactive manner. Brushing and flossing
is very important in this regard. Moreover, you have to make sure that the
foods you eat are not disturbing the bacterial balance of your oral cavity.
Furthermore, you need to visit your dentist in every 6 months to get your oral
cavity fully analyzed.
