What Factors Increase the Risk of Tooth Decay in Adults?
Teeth become weaker and more vulnerable to decay the older you get. When combined with other factors, your mouth can become the perfect host for higher amounts of bacteria that cause decay.
Poor Dental Care Routine
Decay can easily take hold of your teeth if plaque bacteria isn’t removed for a long time. This can happen as adults get older and leave behind some of their best habits or have trouble cleaning their teeth due to orthodontic appliances.
Bridges, Fillings and Crowns
Decay-causing bacteria is known to hide in the areas where your teeth and dental crowns, bridges or fillings meet, making it harder to remove.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth reduces the amount of natural saliva your mouth produces and is the most common factor that drives adult tooth decay. Teeth become weakened and can no longer self-repair when there isn’t enough saliva present.
Gum Recession
Receding gums expose the root of your teeth, making it very easy for decay to occur in the root surface.