Most people know eating too many sweets and not practicing a dental care routine can lead to cavities. However, these oral problems can also result from a few surprising habits. Along with regularly visiting a dentist, you can prevent tooth decay by becoming familiar with the practices that commonly cause it.

What Are Unexpected Causes of Cavities?

1. Smoking Cigarettes

Smoking harms your oral hygiene, along with causing other health risks. Toxic chemicals in cigarettes dry out the mouth, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Saliva helps plaque and food particles from clinging to teeth, so a lack of it increases a person's cavity risk. 

Quitting smoking will provide the biggest boost to both your dental and overall health. However, if you're not ready to stop yet, drink plenty of water during the day to ensure proper hydration and saliva production.

2. Drinking Citrus Juices

Citrus juices, including orange and grapefruit, are brimming with essential vitamins and nutrients. However, they're also highly acidic, softening tooth enamel over time. This protective layer becomes more susceptible to bacteria when it wears down, leading to tooth decay.

After drinking this type of beverage, rinse with water to eliminate residual citrus acids in the mouth. Then, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. This measure prevents damage caused by rubbing acids all around the enamel. 

3. Eating Dried Fruits

Dried fruits often seem like a healthier alternative to other snacks, but they're high in sugar. They're also sticky, so they can easily become stuck in your teeth after eating. You should generally avoid foods with lots of sugar, including dried fruits. If you consume these treats, drink plenty of water while eating and follow up with a brushing and flossing session. 

Along with avoiding these habits, you can prevent cavities by regularly visiting Gleason Dental Clinic in Beatrice, NE. Serving families throughout Gage County, this practice offers dependable dentistry services for patients of all ages in a relaxed and comfortable office. In addition to preventative care, this team provides restorative and cosmetic procedures to ensure optimum oral health for life. Learn more about their treatment options by visiting the website, and schedule an appointment by calling (402) 228-3119 today.