Understanding Tooth Decay: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Oral health is vital to maintain your overall health. However, often it is overlooked, and as a result, one has to bear the brunt. Tooth decay is a common oral health issue that destroys the enamel, the hard outer surface of a tooth. As it progresses, it tends to attack deeper layers of the tooth, resulting in cavities.

If you do not receive tooth decay treatment, it may result in more issues with your teeth or mouth. Here’s everything about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of tooth decay.

What is Tooth Decay?

Also known as cavities or dental caries, tooth decay is a disease that leads to the breakdown of the enamel. Once eroded, the cavities start building up. A tooth comprises three layers, namely enamel – the first and the outer layer protecting others, dentin – the second layer, and pulp – the center. When tooth decay is caused, it makes its way into all three layers of the tooth. The condition may lead to different degrees of severity. The damage may range from causing wear to the enamel to painful abscesses within the pulp.

How Tooth Decay Occurs?

Your mouth houses millions of bacteria that stick to the teeth in a build-up called dental plaque. They use sugar in the food and drinks they consume to create energy to live. To turn this sugar into energy, the bacteria creates acid and waste products in the mouth, which dissolve crystals of the teeth, leading to mineral loss. This situation weakens the tooth and causes decay. The more frequently you consume sugary items, the higher your chance of developing tooth decay.

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The saliva works to prevent decay from occurring. It washes sugar out of your mouth and into your stomach and stops acid from causing damage.

What are the Causes of Tooth Decay?

The prime cause of tooth decay is the build-up of plaque in the tooth. Gum recession is another cause; however, it is not very common. Other causes of tooth decay include the following:

• Having a dry mouth
• Having weak enamel due to illness or genetics
• Not maintaining proper oral hygiene
• Having an eating disorder, such as bulimia or anorexia
• Eating too much sugary food/drinks
• Acid reflux or GERD.

What are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay?

The symptoms of this condition may vary, depending upon the stage it has reached. The most common symptoms of tooth decay include the following:

• Swollen red gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Sensitive teeth
• Pain while chewing the food
• Persistent toothache
• White or black film on the tooth cavity
• Tooth loss

What are the Treatment Options for Tooth Decay?

It is important to schedule an appointment with the dentist upon experiencing the symptoms of the condition. They will recommend the treatment depending on the severity. As important it is to get the treatment, indeed it is more important to get it from the best possible clinic or hospital. Prakash hospital is by far the best dental hospital in noida​ for anyone residing in the Delhi or NCR region.The most common treatment options for tooth decay include the following.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatment is an early-stage treatment offered to strengthen enamel. The dentist uses this mineral in various forms to help stop and repair the damage in the tooth. Fluoride is directly applied to the teeth. The treatment is quick and easy and takes only a few minutes. Fluoride comes in the form of varnish, gel, foam, or even a solution.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a suitable treatment for cavities occurring from tooth decay. The dentist drills the tooth, removes the cavity, and then shapes it to fit the filling. A filling can be of the material of your choice, including dental amalgam or composite.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are used to treat large cavities occurring due to tooth decay. The procedure may require multiple sittings. The dentist first removes the outer portion of the tooth along with decay and takes an impression of the tooth. Initially, they will fit a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready, which may take 1-2 weeks.

Root Canal

A root canal is performed to prevent the need for tooth extraction when the innermost layer (pulp) is damaged. The dentist starts the procedure by numbing the tooth before removing the pulp. They clean and shape the root canal inside of the tooth and apply medicine in the area to get rid of bacteria. The root canal is filled with a rubber-like substance, and the crown is placed to restore the teeth. This procedure requires more than one sitting.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is recommended when the decay has caused damage to the tooth and nerves. The dentist numbs the damaged tooth and removes it from the root. After doing so, they will recommend a post-extraction regime. You may experience pain or swelling after extraction, which goes off after a few days.

How Can Tooth Decay Be Prevented?

You can prevent or reverse tooth decay with the following tips:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
• Do not consume sugar food items or drinks in excess, as they are one of the most common causes of tooth decay.
• Eat healthy, including fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoid consuming junk or processed foods and candies.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and oral examination.

Takeaway

Tooth decay is a widespread dental condition, with many children and adults falling prey to the same. Upon experiencing any symptoms, we advise you to schedule an appointment with your dentist and prepare for the recommended treatment.