Are you having tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, or bleeding gums? Many people with extra (or “bicuspid”) teeth are unaware that their dental issue is, in fact, cavities.
Bicuspids, also known as premolars, are a mix of temporary and permanent teeth. Did you know that an estimated 2 billion people worldwide are thought to have permanent tooth decay, and 514 million children have primary tooth decay?
Bicuspid tooth decay is where the surfaces of the bicuspid teeth have been eroding. How do you know if it is causing you harm? We’ve rounded up what causes tooth decay below.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Bacteria from poor oral hygiene can get between the teeth and gums and create a breeding ground for decay. Practicing effective brushing techniques and regular flossing will help get rid of plaque and bacteria buildup.
When poor oral hygiene is not corrected, the decay can worsen, and tooth decay treatment is difficult, leading to possible extraction. To prevent tooth decay and save your bicuspids from further damage, good oral hygiene practices must be followed.
Lack of Fluoride
Not getting enough fluoride can lead to tooth decay. Fluoride helps protect teeth from decay and strengthens them.
Without enough fluoride, tooth enamel, which is the protective surface covering the teeth, can break down and allow bacteria to enter and start eating away at the tooth structure. This can cause cavities, bicuspid decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
People on low-fluoride diets are susceptible to tooth decay since they cannot get the protective benefits that fluoride offers. To ensure optimal tooth health, foods rich in fluoride and regular brushing and flossing are recommended.
Diet
Bicuspids are more susceptible to decay because they are more sharply pointed than other teeth and may have more areas where food and bacteria can become trapped. Foods high in sugar and acid can increase tooth decay in general. These will affect the bicuspids more than other teeth due to their general design.
Eating a diet high in sugar and acid, or one without an appropriate level of nutrients to maintain oral health, can cause bicuspid decay. Acidic beverages like soda can be detrimental to the teeth.
The best way to prevent tooth decay is to maintain a healthy diet low in sugar and acid, as well as high in vitamins and minerals. This will keep teeth and gums healthy and lower the likelihood of tooth decay.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Bruxism is a condition in which teeth clenching and grinding occur. This can result in excessive wear and tear on the enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay. As the bicuspid teeth are already vulnerable due to their location, they are more susceptible to damage from grinding than other teeth.
Many people who suffer from bruxism have been found to have low salivary pH, which affects the protective benefits of saliva in the mouth. All these factors can contribute to bicuspid tooth decay. If you are concerned about bicuspid decay, it is important to have regular visits to your local dentist’s office to check for signs of decay and damage and also to manage the level of bruxism.
Taking Care of Your Bicuspid Tooth
Common causes of bicuspid tooth decay are poor oral hygiene, lack of fluoride, and improper diet. These can be avoided with proper brushing, flossing, and fluoride treatments.
To prevent tooth decay caused by bicuspids, regular visits to the dentist are recommended. Contact your local dental professionals today for more information.
