Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Decay!!

It is defined as irreversible, slow, progressing decay of the hard tissues of the tooth It involves the destruction of the hard tissues of the teeth by substances produced by oral microorganisms. It is also known as dental caries.

HOW TOOTH DECAY DEVELOPS:

It develops tooth decay due to a combination of eating a diet high in sugar and poor oral hygiene. If the plaque biofilm is not removed daily adequate brushing and interdental cleaning, it turns the sugar we eat into acid, which decays the tooth.

CAUSES OF TOOTH DECAY:

The primary culprits for tooth decay are.

Poor oral hygiene:

Inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouth wash can cause plaque to develop on the teeth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which is difficult to remove and leads to an increased risk of decay.

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks:

When we consume a high amount of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, it leads to the accumulation of harmful bacteria, which increases enamel damage.

Lack of fluoride:

Poor fluoride diets and the absence of fluoride in toothpaste can weaken tooth enamel, which causes erosion and tiny holes.

Dry mouth(xerostomia):

Saliva plays an important role in our mouth. antimicrobial properties of saliva protect your teeth from dental caries. Reduced flow of saliva in your mouth leads to more dental
caries.

Bacteria and plaque build-up:

Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria. Improper brushing and cleaning of the teeth may cause the formation of plaque on your teeth, which leads to the growth of bacteria and the destruction of the enamel of the tooth.

Genetics and family history:

Sometimes genetics also plays a major contributory effect in dental caries. In a family, if parents have a high number of dental cavities, then children are also more prone to dental caries.

SYMPTOMS OF TOOTH DECAY:

Early Signs

1. 1. White spots on teeth
2. 2.Tooth Sensitivity

 

Advanced symptoms:

1. 1. Tooth pain, Bad Breath
2. 2. Visible pits or holes
3. 3.Brown/black discoloration

If tooth decay left untreated leads to complications, those are.

TOOTH DECAY  →  PULPITIS  → ABSCESS  →  TOOTH LOSS

PREVENTION OF TOOTH DECAY

Brushing and flossing techniques:

Brushing and flossing techniques:

Brush your teeth twice a day

Fluoride:

should use fluoride-containing tooth paste and mouthwash so that it helps to strengthen the enamel.

Dental check-ups:

Regular dental checkups and cleaning procedures may help in early detection and prevention of tooth decay

Diet Recommendations:

reduce intake of sugar containing foods and acidic foods and beverages. Opt for plenty of water over sugary drinks.

Dental sealants and fluoride treatments:

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings brushed onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth, which help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride applications can ‘strengthen the teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.

Treatment Options for Tooth Decay:

Professional dental treatments:

1. Filling of cavities can be done with various materials, such as composite resin or amalgam.

2. Crowns for more extensive tooth damage, a crown may be needed to cover and protect the tooth.

3. Root canal in cases of severe tooth infection, pulp involvement, or damage, root canal treatment may be performed to save the tooth. Early decay managing products: Fluoride varnishes: fluoride varnish is a coating liquid for teeth that is applied in thin layers to the surfaces of teeth. It helps to prevent new cavities and slow down or stop decay from getting worse.

Desensitizing Tooth Paste:

In early tooth decay cases, desensitizing tooth paste helps reduce sensitivity by blocking pain sensors in your mouth that respond to heat, cold and sugar. Home remedies for symptom relief Rinsing with saltwater may relieve tooth pain, and applying clove oil can also reduce the pain.

Contact Us:

Phone: 6281497455

https://solitairefamilydentistry.com/
Email:solitairefamilydentistry@gmail.com
Address: #101, 1st floor, above blue stone, opp. forum nexus mall, 6th phase,
kphb,Hyderabad-500085