Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of tooth loss.
Most of us tend to ignore dental decay as it is relatively painless in the initial stages.
A huge variety of microorganisms are always present in our mouth. It is impossible to eliminate these microorganisms. Some of these bacteria attach themselves onto the tooth structure, multiply and grow in number until a bacterial colony forms. Proteins that are present in the saliva also mix in and the bacteria colony becomes a whitish film called ‘plaque’
These bacteria feed on sugars and starches from the food like chocolates, sticky sweets, ice cream, milk, cakes, and even fruits, vegetables and juices, producing acids as byproducts.
These acids then dissolve the tooth enamel (the outer hard layer of the tooth) and a cavity is formed causing a hole in the tooth structure. If not taken care of at this stage, it further reaches the dentin (inner sensitive second layer) where it spreads more quickly. If left untreated, the decay spreads to the nerves and blood vessels in the centre of the tooth leading to tooth abscess.
Unfortunately, the bacterial attack is so gradual that there may be no pain or sensitivity until the cavity becomes quite large.
Causes of Tooth Decay:
- Improper or poor oral hygiene habits.
- ‘Nursing Bottle Caries’ is commonly seen in infants taking a bottle that contains milk or juices to bed with them .These liquids contain sugars that pool around the teeth and can cause decay.
- Root cavities can happen in advanced age as the gums recede, leaving parts of the tooth root exposed. Since there is no enamel covering the tooth roots, these areas can easily decay.
- Recurrent dental caries is usually seen around existing fillings and crowns because these areas are not as smooth as a natural tooth surface.
- Dental caries is very active in people with dry mouth.
Treatment:
- Treatment is invasive and depends upon the severity of the tooth decay and the extent of damage that has already occurred.
- The damaged and caries affected part of the tooth has to be excavated and removed.
- The cavity can then be filled using a dental filling material.
- In some cases, where the cavity is deep and if the tooth is infected, root canal treatment would be required.
- However, in some instances a tooth is so badly decayed and broken down that an extraction of that particular tooth has to be performed to prevent any further complications.
Prevention:
The key to preventing tooth decay is removing plaque and bacteria before acid can eat away the tooth. This can be achieved by:
- Good oral hygiene habits: brushing carefully (inside, outside and between your teeth) at least twice a day, flossing daily, using a fluoride toothpaste.
- Food habits: A nutritious and balanced diet is very important. Avoid eating sweets and chocolates between meals. Rinse your mouth thoroughly after every meal.
- Regular dental checks: Regular visits (every 6 months) to your dentist would be very helpful.
Your dentist can be helpful in the following ways:
- May recommend application of fluoride gels, mouth rinses, or dietary fluoride supplements, if required.
- May use professional anti-cavity varnish, or sealants (thin plastic coatings) providing an extra barrier against food and debris.
- Can repair the gaps or smoothen the rough edges in existing fillings that could attract bacterial accumulation.
- Can detect early decay on x-rays and prevent it from spreading further.
- Can teach you the proper brushing and flossing technique.
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