Most people understand the importance of limiting sugar, carbonated beverages, and acidic foods that can increase the chances of tooth decay. Additionally, the majority of us know that daily brushing and flossing are vital to maintaining dental health and hygiene.
However, there is a source of tooth decay that many people may not know of or think about, and that is black mold. Black mold has recently been found to cause tooth decay and also increase the severity of it. Exposure to black mold can be either through direct contact, or via the air we breathe.
Often, things like travel mugs and portable cups or water bottles can have small crevices in the lids, or somewhere else in the design which trap liquids. These tiny spaces are usually difficult if not impossible to clean and therefore, supply the perfect environment for mold to grow. However, it may not be immediately noticeable. This is why people come into contact with black mold while doing something as simple as drinking their morning coffee on the way to work.
To prevent mold from growing in travel cups, you can try soaking them in vinegar, tea tree oil, rubbing alcohol, boiling water, or use steam to sterilize them. Additionally, disassemble them and wash each piece by hand. Always allow cups, lids, and all other parts to dry thoroughly before reassembling and putting them away.
When someone drinks out of a thermos or something else that contains mold, a fungus known as Candida albicans can develop in the mouth. This fungus can result in oral thrush, as well as increase the likelihood of developing tooth decay.
When someone is exposed to black mold in the air, they inhale it and their mucous membranes are irritated as a result. Black mold likes to grow in damp places, meaning it can hide in various areas of the home, such as in carpeting or insulation.
When mold spores are inhaled, they can cause many different symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, skin irritation, excess mucus production, etc. Often, congestion of the nasal passages will make it difficult to breathe, resulting in open mouth breathing. This leads to dry mouth and less saliva production. Less saliva means more cavity causing bacteria in the mouth, and therefore an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Now that we know just how dangerous black mold can be to our dental health, we can work to avoid it. When it comes to tooth decay, black mold is a serious concern, but there are many more health problems that can be linked to black mold outside of cavities.
For general dentistry services, like oral hygiene care, dental exams, cavity prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and more, you can rely on Cary Dental Associates. If you have been searching for a “family dentist around me in Cary, IL” then make an appointment with us today. Our team is here to make sure your smile stays healthy, strong, and beautiful no matter what kind of dental care you may need.
