We encourage our patients to think of the two main oral diseases, gum disease and cavities, differently because they have different causes and different prevention strategies. Gum disease is treated and prevented with effective home cleaning techniques, designed to eliminate all inflammation. Cavities, on the other hand, are caused by exorbitant amounts of carbohydrates and/or acidic drinks, such as sodas and energy drinks, as well as continual "grazing", which inhibits the natural cleansing from salivary flow.