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6 Things You Need to Know About Tooth Decay
This article breaks down the causes, progression, and prevention of tooth decay in a clear and practical way. It explains that the bacteria responsible for tooth decay are always present in the mouth, even with good oral hygiene. Problems begin when these bacteria feed on sugars and starches, producing acid that erodes tooth enamel and forms plaque. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar and increases the risk of cavities. The article explains how cavities form and why early treatment is important. Initial symptoms often include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, which can progress into persistent toothache. Fillings are usually enough to treat cavities when caught early, preventing bacteria from reaching deeper layers of the tooth. If tooth decay is left untreated, bacteria can infect the dental pulp inside the tooth, leading to severe pain and inflammation. At this stage, a root canal treatment is required to remove the infection and save the tooth. The article highlights that untreated root canal infections can spread, potentially leading to abscesses and serious health risks if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Finally, the article reassures readers that preventing tooth decay is straightforward. Maintaining good oral hygiene, using fluoride toothpaste, reducing sugar intake, and attending regular dental check-ups are all effective ways to protect teeth and keep decay at bay.
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6 Things You Need to Know About Tooth Decay
We all want a healthy smile. To keep your teeth looking great, it’s vital you take good care of them and avoid the causes of tooth decay.
We all know tooth decay causes problems, but what exactly does it do to our oral health?
Let’s lift the lid on the causes of tooth decay, what happens if it’s ignored, and how you can prevent it.
6 Things You Need to Know About Tooth Decay
1. The Bacteria That Cause Tooth Decay Are Always There
The biggest risk to oral health is tooth decay and gum disease. Both of these conditions are caused by a build-up of bacteria in your mouth.
Your mouth contains numerous types of bacteria, some good and some bad. Regardless of the type, bacteria are naturally occurring and are always there. No matter how much you brush, floss, or rinse your teeth, these bacteria still exist.
Keeping your mouth healthy ensures you’re doing everything possible to keep these bacteria in check. You can do this through diet and oral hygiene.
2. Problems Occur When Bacteria Meets Sugar and Starch
When these bad bacteria feed on starches and sugars in your diet, it creates acid that erodes your teeth. A sticky film called plaque can develop around your teeth and gums. Plaque is made up of a mixture of bacteria and food particles.
Plaque gradually hardens when it’s not removed; this becomes tartar, which is difficult to remove and gradually erodes the surface of your tooth.
Eventually, through acid erosion, the hard enamel surface of your tooth develops a hole. We refer to this decay as dental cavities or caries.
3. Fillings Fix Cavities
Often, we can see the warning signs that you will develop a cavity ahead of time. If you’re coming to see us for regular dental checkups, we’ll often spot weaknesses in your tooth’s enamel and can help you keep your tooth healthy.
When cavities emerge, they bring sensitivity and pain. You may initially find that anything too hot or cold or even particularly sweet causes your teeth to twinge. Eventually, this sensitivity is replaced by toothache.
The earlier we treat a cavity, the better. We’ll usually do this with fillings. This simple procedure prevents bacteria from penetrating deeper into your tooth.
4. Untreated Cavities Lead to Infections
Over time, untreated tooth decay allows bacteria to infect the living inner cells called the dental pulp. The dental pulp is found in the tooth's centre and the root canals that spread below into the jaw bone. The infection causes severe pain and inflammation.
To preserve your tooth, we’ll need to perform a root canal treatment that removes bacteria and infected dental pulp.
5. Root Canal Infections Spread
Although the pain of an infected root canal is unbearable, some people may still ignore it and avoid treatment. But contrary to expectations, root canal treatment is a straightforward procedure that alleviates pain rather than causing it.
Without a root canal treatment, the tooth will eventually die, and an abscess may form beneath it. The infection will then spread to other areas of the mouth and may enter the bloodstream, posing a risk to the heart.
6. Avoiding Tooth Decay Is Simple
Despite the dire consequences of tooth decay, avoiding it is relatively easy. The first thing to consider is your oral hygiene routine. Brush twice a day for two minutes at a time. Ensure you’re brushing the front, top, and back of each tooth, paying attention to the areas between them.
Use a soft toothbrush. Flouride toothpaste strengthens enamel, making it harder for bacteria to cause damage. You should also consider flossing to remove trapped food debris and using mouthwash to fight bacteria.
The next thing you need to think about is your diet. Avoid sugary food and drinks, and if you enjoy the occasional sweet treat, try to brush your teeth immediately after.
Lastly, call and see us for a check-up twice a year to get ahead of any potential problems.
Book Your Appointment Today
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen us, or you’re due a routine checkup, call us today and schedule your appointment. Together we’ll keep tooth decay at bay.
