Tooth decay – Diagnosis, Causes and Prevention

Tooth decay can permanently damage your teeth create holes, and eventually if left untreated can lead to loss of teeth. Tooth decay is caused by a number of factors including bacteria in your mouth, snacking, consuming sugary drinks, smoking, a certain type of medication, and not practicing bad oral hygiene. Tooth decay is among the most common oral problems. They can happen to anyone including children, teenagers, and adults.

What happens if tooth decay is left untreated?

If cavities aren’t treated, they can cause several problems such as:

• They affect deeper layers of your teeth
• Can cause severe toothache
• Can cause extreme tooth sensitivity
• Can lead to a painful infection
• It can eventually lead to tooth loss

What are the Symptoms of tooth decay?

The signs and symptoms of tooth decay depend on the extent and location. In the early stage, you may not experience any symptoms. As the decay gets larger you may notice symptoms such as:

• Visible holes in your teeth
• Staining on any surface of a tooth
• Pain when you bite
• Toothache without any apparent cause
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Mild or sharp pain when drinking hot or cold drink

Complications of tooth decay may include:

• Pain
• Tooth abscess
• Pus around a tooth
• Chewing problems

Diagnosis of tooth decay

Dentists detect tooth decay by:

• Asking you about your tooth pain and sensitivity
• Examining your mouth by using specific dental instruments
• Looking at dental X-rays, can help detect tooth decay in areas that are hidden or not visible directly to the dentist

Causes of tooth decay

Tooth decay is a slow process that occurs over time. Here’s how it develops:

Plaque: This is a clear sticky film that coats your teeth, this accumulates on your teeth due to consumption of starches and not practicing good oral hygiene. Plaque stays on your teeth can turn to tartar. The acids in plaque cause erosion in your teeth and causes tiny holes in the enamel. It further leads to tooth decay causes pain and discomfort.

Prevention

Good oral hygiene can help you avoid Tooth Decay. Here are some tips to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid dental problems.

Brush with fluoride toothpaste: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride-containing toothpaste. It is also essential to floss your teeth daily to get rid of any food stuck between your teeth.

Rinse your mouth: Rinse your mouth after consumption of food and also use the mouth wash recommended by your dentist.

Visit your dentist regularly: Professional teeth cleaning can help prevent tooth decay

Avoid frequent snacking: Eating unhealthy junk food is not only bad for your health but also for your teeth. If you snack throughout the day, your teeth are under attack.

Eat healthy foods: Eating fresh fruits and vegetables keeps your teeth and gums healthy

Fluoride treatments. Dentists may recommend prescription fluoride if you are at risk of tooth decay.

At our clinic, we offer trusted and quality treatments for TOOTH DECAY, for more information please get in touch with us now. We will be happy to help you with all your requirements.