Tooth decay is a very common condition. It often happens to children, but can affect any individual. It is often a cause of tooth loss in children.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay is caused by the bacteria that are usually found in the mouth. These bacteria change foods into acids. Bacteria, acid, food particles, and watery fluid amalgamate in the mouth to form an adhesive substance called plaque. It is ordinary on the back molars, just on the top of the gum line on all teeth and at the borders of fillings. Plaque starts to build up on teeth within 20 minutes after having food. If it is not eradicated, tooth decay will arise.
Carbohydrates enhance the risk of tooth decay. Adhesive foods are much more likely to cause tooth decay than non-adhesive foods because they stick to the teeth. Constant snacking also increases risk of tooth decay because it enhances the time span that acids are in contact with the superficial area of the tooth.
Symptoms
Sometimes it might be possible that no symptoms occur. If symptoms take place, they may consist of:
- Tooth pain especially after hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks.
- Obvious holes in the teeth.
Treatment
Treatment may include:
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Root canals – Check out these 9 Preventive Tips on How to Avoid Root Canal Naturally
Fillings
Dentists fill teeth by eradicating the decayed area of the tooth with machinery and restoring it with a material such as silver amalgam, porcelain, or composite resin. Porcelain and composite resin tend to match the tooth appearance more closely and may be preferred for teeth in the front of the mouth. Some dentists have come to the conclusion that silver alloy and gold are the most efficient, so these materials are used on back teeth in many cases. Some dentists use durable composite resin in the back teeth also.
Crowns
Crowns are used if tooth decay has spread to a large area and there is damage to the tooth structure, which may cause broken or loose teeth. Extensive fillings and thinning tooth enamel enhance the risk of the tooth breaking. The thinning area is removed and repaired. A cap is fitted over the top of the tooth. Caps are frequently made of porcelain or porcelain fixed to metal.
Root Canals
A root canal is needed if the nerve in a tooth dies from harm or decay. The middle of the tooth, which contains the nerve and blood vessel tissue, is eradicated along with the decayed parts of the tooth. The tooth is filled and a cap is customarily required.
Prevention
Oral hygiene is important to prevent the formation of cavities. This includes professional cleaning, brushing two times a day and flossing regularly. X-rays need to be taken every year to detect any cavity development in the mouth.
Adhesive foods are good if eaten as a meal and not as a snack. If feasible, brush the teeth after having these foods. Reduce snacking, which produces a regular supply of acid in the mouth. Keep away from sipping on acidic drinks or constant sucking on candies.
Topical fluoride is suggested to guard the superficial area of the teeth. This may consist of fluoride toothpaste. Some dentists recommend utilization of topical fluoride solutions as part of regular visits.