Although the desire to provide eco-friendly oral care is the driving force behind our natural toothpaste tablets, sustainable mouthwash tablets, and mouthwash concentrate, we have never lost focus on the number one reason for oral care in general: preventing tooth decay.
Tooth decay is the primary cause of numerous oral health problems. Unfortunately, more than 80% of American adults develop their first cavity before they reach their mid-30s. Meanwhile, up to 50% of American adults over the age of 30 have periodontal disease. Tooth decay is a primary culprit.
Our problems with tooth decay are predominantly related to a combination of diet and oral care. There is a genetic component, so genetics cannot be completely dismissed. But by and large, the combination of what we eat and how we take care of our teeth has the greatest impact on the risk for tooth decay.
Primary Causes of Tooth Decay
In coming up with a formula for our toothpaste and mouthwash tablets, we paid close attention to the primary causes of tooth decay. Tooth decay begins as bacteria that convert sugars and starches into acids. The acids go on to attack tooth enamel, damaging a tooth's surface – often to the point of creating cavities.
Here are the primary causes of tooth decay:
● Excess Sugar and Starch – Consuming a lot of excess sugar and starch is the big one. Both sugar and starch provide the fuel necessary to create the damaging acids that harm teeth.
● Poor Oral Hygiene – Regular brushing and flossing reduces the sugar and starches that lead to tooth decay. But the opposite is also true. Poor oral hygiene allows both bacteria and acids to flourish, contributing to tooth decay.
● Dry Mouth – Saliva is one of the body's natural defenses against tooth decay. Therefore, a person who regularly experiences dry mouth might also be more susceptible to tooth decay because there isn't as much saliva in the mouth.
It has been said that a lack of fluoride leads to tooth decay as well. Fluoride is believed to strengthen enamel, making it less susceptible to harmful acids. But there is now some debate over the effectiveness and safety of fluoride. That is one of the reasons we have chosen to replace fluoride with hydroxyapatite in our toothpaste and mouthwash tablets.
Preventing Tooth Decay Isn't Hard
Despite the high prevalence of tooth decay in the U.S., preventing it isn't hard. Just go through the primary causes and apply solutions to each one.
In terms of diet, reducing sugar and starch intake helps a lot. Avoiding sugary drinks, hard candy, gum, and the like eliminates the fuel bacteria requires to create the harmful acids known to cause tooth decay. Starve the bacteria of their fuel and you reduce damage to the teeth.
Of course, solid oral care is a no-brainer. We agree with dentists that regular brushing and flossing is one of the best defenses against tooth decay. Mouthwash and toothpaste tablets with hydroxyapatite are a better choice compared to toothpastes with fluoride. At least that is our stand.
Finally, regular dental checkups are always a good idea. By visiting the dentist every six months or so you will keep the dental staff apprised of your oral health as well as offering opportunities for thorough cleanings.
We Are Doing Our Part
As a company specializing in eco-friendly oral care, we have an obligation to provide safe and effective products. We are doing our part by offering natural toothpaste and mouthwash tablets made with natural ingredients, including hydroxyapatite. We hope you will give them a try.
