“HOW TO PREVENT TOOTH DECAY AND CAVITIES”

Tooth decay is the breakdown of tooth enamel, which is the hard outer surface of a tooth. It's also known as dental caries or cavities.

CAUSE

  • Bacteria in your mouth produce acids that attack the tooth's enamel
  • You feed the bacteria every time you eat or drink

SYMPTOMS

  • A white or dark spot on the tooth
  • A cavity or hole in the tooth
  • Pain and sensitivity
  • Bad smell from the tooth
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Unpleasant taste in your mouth

Tooth decay progresses through five stages: demineralization, enamel decay, dentin decay, pulp involvement, and abscess formation.

Here's a more detailed explanation of each stage:

  • Stage 1: Demineralization (Initial Decay/White Spots)
    • This is the earliest stage, where the enamel starts losing minerals due to acid from plaque bacteria.
    • Signs include chalky white spots on the tooth surface.
    • This stage can sometimes be reversed with proper oral hygiene and fluoride treatments.
  • Stage 2: Enamel Decay
    • The enamel continues to break down, and white spots may turn brownish, with cavities starting to form.
    • This is the stage where you might need fillings.
  • Stage 3: Dentin Decay
    • The decay progresses into the dentin (the softer layer beneath the enamel), which decays faster than enamel.
    • You might experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  • Stage 4: Pulp Involvement (Pulp Damage)
    • The decay reaches the pulp (the innermost layer with nerves and blood vessels).
    • You may feel pain, and there can be redness and swelling in the gums.
  • Stage 5: Abscess Formation
    • A severe infection (abscess) develops around the tooth root.
    • You may experience intense pain, swelling in the jaw, and other symptoms like fever and bad breath.

Treatment

  • Fluoride toothpaste or dental varnish may help remineralize teeth
  • If the bacteria are stopped or removed, the cavities will stop getting bigger

Prevention

  • Make sure you and your children look after their teeth and gums from an early age
  • Practice good oral hygiene

Complications

  • If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection, pain, and even tooth loss.