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The Hard Facts You Should Know About Soft Teeth

Having tooth sensitivity, toothaches, cavities, or other issues despite your diligence to caring for your teeth, could be a factor in feeling like you have soft teeth. However, having “soft teeth” isn’t actually a thing, and it’s really that people who believe their teeth are “soft” have teeth that aren’t as likely to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life - even if they have the best daily oral hygiene.

What causes soft teeth?

Your teeth are more susceptible to cavities from damaged enamel if you have frequent heartburn or acid reflux. Your teeth become exposed to the erosion-causing stomach acid and that damage is actually worse than any damage caused by soda, sugar, or other things that aren’t ideal for teeth. Other potential factors for weakened enamel and the feeling of soft teeth are:

Signs of oral cancer can include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Malnutrition
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Dental decay
• Bacteria
• Trauma
• Fever
• Infections in baby teeth.

It’s important not to confuse having poor oral health with the belief of having soft teeth.

How you can tell if you have soft teeth

Knowing that soft teeth is a common misconception, there are a few instances where you may have weaker teeth. For you to have weaker or soft teeth, you would need to have experienced something that would damage your teeth while they were developing. Examples of events are: infections or excessive bacteria, chronic illness, malnutrition, or a hormonal imbalance all before the age of 14 - when your teeth stop developing.

With that being said, your teeth can become weaker over time due to acid reflux, sugar exposure, or irregular oral health care.

It’s important to note that in most cases of weak teeth, they will look different. Weak teeth may have chalky spots, banding, brown spots, or an unusual appearance. But if your teeth look “normal”, and no unusual findings have been mentioned by your dentist, your teeth are probably not “soft”.

Common misconceptions about soft teeth

There are certain life events, like pregnancy, breastfeeding, being diagnosed with diabetes as an adult, or even allergies that can cause you to believe your teeth have become “soft”. Cavities form from poor oral hygiene and/or poor diet, and soft teeth are not developed later in your life - instead, it’s during the prime developmental stages of your teeth. While a major life change can be a contributing factor in your oral health, it’s not likely to be the cause of “soft teeth”.

Preventing cavities and good oral hygiene

TKeeping your teeth strong and preventing cavities is doable by:

• Establishing a good oral health routine by brushing at least twice a day and flossing.
• Brushing your teeth properly, without too much force.
• Flossing properly.
• Limiting foods that are bad for your teeth, like those that are high in sugars and starches.
• Drinking more water than sugary juices or sodas.
• Keeping up with your regular dental checkups.
• Scheduling a first dental visit for your child when you see their first tooth, or their first birthday.
• Discouraging thumb sucking and not allowing your child to fall asleep drinking a bottle of juice or milk.
• Teaching your child the importance of good oral hygiene and incorporating those into their morning and nighttime routines.

Dr. Julie Liberman DDS of Great Neck Dental Care NY proudly serves patients of all ages in the Great Neck area, spanning New Hyde Park, Floral Park, Douglaston, Jericho, Roslyn, etc. Book your checkup today to see how you can prevent cavities and maintain good dental health.