Cavities are the single most prevalent dental health concern encountered by dental professionals. While its primary cause is plaque, bacteria, and acids, there are influencing factors that aren’t often considered. Nearly 20% of all children and 25% of all adults have experienced decay in at least one tooth. Understanding their origins will go a long way towards helping dentists battle this health concern and ensure that fewer patients will have to live with them. One thing that has been revealed in the battle against tooth decay is that black mold may be responsible.

The Presence of Black Mold In The Home And Oral Cavity

When cavities are discovered to have formed in the mouths of their patients, it can be difficult for them to identify why this decay occurred. While having worked with a patient for an extended period of time can suggest patterns or behaviors that have resulted in this decay, this is not always possible. In these cases, standard paths of treatment are followed, and additional considerations are made to deduce the ultimate cause. One non-standard source of dental decay that has been identified is that resulting from the presence of black mold in a patient’s home.

Black mold, in this context, refers to a variety of species that tend to thrive in environments that are both humid and moist. Throughout our homes, many locations fitting this description can be found, including basements, attics, and even the insulation in our walls. Due to the tendency for these areas to largely be out of sight, out of mind, infestations of black mold may go unnoticed for extended periods of time.

Even when left unnoticed, black mold generates spores that contain mycotoxins which can cause breathing problems, sneezing, and even dry mouth. It is this last condition that leads to black mold’s impact on our oral health.

Black Mold, Dry Mouth, And Their Impact On Oral Health

As one of the common symptoms of black mold, dry mouth is thought to be the primary contribution it makes to tooth decay. Saliva is the body’s primary defense against the bacteria that lead to cavities and other oral health concerns. Dry mouth, in turn, can lead to:

• Gum Disease
• Mouth Ulcers and Sores
• Jawbone Degradation 
• Halitosis or Bad Breath 
• Thrush 
• Difficulty Chewing and Swallowing
• Dry and Sore Throat 

If you’re considering that your oral health issues may be the result of your home having an infestation of black mold, help is available. The CDC provides a comprehensive set of tips, tricks, and techniques for the elimination of this mold in your home. While battling this fungus, be sure to maintain good oral hygiene practice, including regular flossing, brushing, and the use of mouthwash. In addition, hydration is exceptionally important when dry mouth is involved in the formation of oral health concerns. Want more help addressing the role black mold has on your oral health? Schedule an appointment with your dentist today.