The US Department of Health and Human Services created a list of the causes of dental problems to inform people about what they can do to protect their oral health.
Diet: People should consume a healthy diet to prevent dental problems. Unhealthy food can cause cavities, tooth decay, bad breath, and gum diseases. An improper diet does not offer the right nutrients for healthy teeth, which can lead to cavities or other dental problems.
Lifestyle: Smoking, drinking, and stress all affect oral health over time. For example, smoking can stain teeth and lead to tooth loss. Poor brushing: Brushing teeth is the most important thing to do to prevent a dental problem.
Dental conditions: Some teeth problems are caused by specific dental conditions such as a cleft palate, ankylosis, or arthritis. Also, untreated oral infections can cause bad breath and gum disease. People who have poor oral hygiene can experience many dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and cavities.
Inadequate or lack of fluoride: Dental problems are also caused by an inadequate supply of fluoride or not enough fluoride in the teeth. The jawbone is covered with enamel that requires nutrients to remain healthy. Fluoride provides the right nutrients for their teeth. Without fluoride, the enamel will not be able to grow completely and this can create spaces between teeth, which results in tooth decay.
Oral habits are the most common cause of dental problems. Picking, chewing, and cheek biting can wear down teeth and cause gum disease. Some people are also unaware if they are biting their teeth, which can lead to dental problems. Genetics: While genetics do not cause dental problems, they can affect the risk of getting them. For example, people with certain genes may have weak enamel or poorly developed teeth. Underlying health conditions: Some people may have medical conditions that cause gum disease. These conditions include diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer. It starts slowly and gets worse over time. Smoking: Smoking can cause many problems, including bad breath, tooth staining, and gum disease. On average, smokers are two times more likely to have periodontal disease than those who do not smoke.
Aside from visiting the dentist, people should always brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily or whenever possible as well.