5 Things You Need to Know About Tooth Decay

When the surface of your tooth starts to break down and small holes develop, this is called tooth decay. The damage tooth decay causes is referred to as dental caries or cavities. If you’ve ever had a filling in your life, it was to repair a cavity. 

Although very common, cavities and tooth decay aren’t problems you should take lightly. Any initial treatment is simple and effective, but skipping this step could harm your oral health and your smile. 

So, what causes tooth decay? And what can you do to prevent it?

Here are five essential facts that everyone should know about tooth decay and cavities. 

1. Tooth Decay Is One of the Most Common Diseases Affecting Humans

According to the World Health Organization, tooth decay is the most common noncommunicable disease in the world. It’s estimated that almost half of the global population is affected by tooth decay. 

The highest occurrences of tooth decay are often found in middle-income countries where high-sugar diets are prevalent. 

2. Tooth Decay Is Caused By Two Main Factors

To develop tooth decay, you need two things: certain acid-creating bacteria and a diet high in sugars and starches. The bad news is that we all naturally have those types of bacteria present in our mouths at all times. The good news is that tooth decay is entirely preventable. 

Inside your mouth, you have lots of different bacteria. Some bacteria are good and help break down food, keep your breath fresh, and even stave off tooth decay. Others feed off sugar and, as they do, create acids that wear through tooth enamel. Introducing too much sugar to these bacteria increases the risk of tooth decay. 

If you have tooth decay, you may notice sensitivity in your teeth. This will eventually become toothache as the cavity forms. 

3. Untreated Tooth Decay Leads to Infection

As acid erodes the surface of a tooth, a cavity will form. Eventually, bacteria will enter the cavity, penetrating deep into the tooth to an area called the pulp chamber. This area contains all the living tissues and nerves, collectively called “dental pulp.” The dental pulp extends right down into the root canal system. 

To remove an infection, you’ll need a root canal treatment. This procedure clears out infected matter and plugs the gap. 

Dental infections are very painful, making it very difficult to chew or eat. You may also experience swelling in the area. 

4. Ignoring Dental Infections Can Have Serious Consequences

Despite the pain and discomfort associated with dental infections, it’s quite common for people to try to avoid treatment. This strategy never works. An infection will kill the tooth, and abscesses will form beneath it.

Gradually, the infection will spread to your other teeth, your gums, and, if it enters your bloodstream, the vital organs such as your heart. 

5. Preventing Tooth Decay Is Easy

Fortunately, despite the potential outcomes, tooth decay is avoidable. There are a few simple ways you can prevent it:

• Avoid sugary food and drinks: If you do enjoy the occasional sweet treat, brush your teeth soon after.
• Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride strengthens your enamel, reducing the risk of acid erosion. 
• Visit your dentist often for a full checkup: A regular checkup helps us spot the early signs of decay, allowing us to do something about it. 

Stop Tooth Decay With Harley Private Dental

At Harley Private Dental, we take the general health of your smile seriously. Tooth decay is easily prevented but could cause severe damage. Help stay ahead of cavities with a regular checkup. 

Call us today to schedule your appointment.

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