Tooth decay is permanent damage that occurs in parts of the hard surface of the teeth that appear in the form of small holes or openings tooth decay Also called tooth decay or cavities, it is caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in the mouth, frequent eating of bland foods, sipping on sugary drinks, and not brushing the teeth well..
According to the website mayoclinic Tooth decay and decay are among the most common health problems in the world and are especially common among children, adolescents and older adults, but anyone with teeth can develop cavities including children.
If tooth decay is not treated, it will grow and affect the deeper layers of your teeth and can lead to severe tooth pain, infection and tooth loss. Regular visits to the dentist and good brushing and flossing habits are the best protection against tooth decay and cavities..
Signs and symptoms of tooth decay vary, depending on the severity and location of decay. At the beginning of the stage of tooth decay, you may not suffer from any symptoms at all, but with the development of erosion and its increase in size, symptoms and signs as follows begin to appear.:
Toothache, sudden spontaneous pain, or pain that occurs for no apparent reason
Tooth sensitivity
Dull or sharp pain while eating or drinking something sweet, cold or hot
Clear pits or gaps in the teeth
Brown, black or white spots on any surface of the teeth
– Pain when biting food
You may not be aware of the cavity that is forming, which is why it is important to have regular dental check-ups and cleanings, even when the mouth is getting better. However, if you have a toothache or mouth pain, go to the dentist as soon as possible..
Tooth decay is caused by tooth decay, a process that occurs over time. Here we show how tooth decay develops:
Dental plaques form a transparent and sticky membrane that covers the patient’s tooth and results from eating a lot of sugars and starches and not cleaning the teeth well. When sugars and starches are not cleaned from the teeth, bacteria begin to feed on them quickly and form plaques. above it and turns into tartar (dental plaque) tartar makes plaque more difficult to remove as it creates a shield for bacteria.
Plaque attacks Plaque acids remove the minerals in the hard outer tooth enamel. This erosion causes small openings or holes in the enamel, which are the first stages of tooth decay. Once areas of the enamel are worn away, the bacteria and acids can reach the next layer of the tooth, called the dentin. This plate is thinner than enamel and less resistant to acids. The dentin layer contains small tubes that are in direct contact with the tooth nerve, causing tooth sensitivity..
– The destruction continues, with the development of tooth decay, bacteria and acids continue their march inside the patient’s teeth, and are then transferred to the inner tooth material (pulp) that contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp swells and irritates because of the bacteria. Since there is no place to extend inside the teeth, pressure is placed on the nerve, which leads to pain. The resulting discomfort can extend beyond the root of the tooth and reach the bone..
Oral and dental hygiene can help prevent cavities and tooth decay. Here are some tips to help prevent tooth decay and consult your dentist about the best advice for you..
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after each meal, with a fluoride toothpaste and to clean between your teeth, use dental floss or an interdental cleaner.
Rinse your mouth. If your dentist thinks you are at risk of developing cavities, he or she may recommend using a mouthwash with fluoride..
Visit the dentist regularly. Have professional dental cleanings and regular oral exams, which can help you prevent or catch problems early, and your doctor can recommend appointments that are convenient for you.
Try using a dental sealer A sealer is a protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth. It seals cavities and crevices that tend to collect food, protecting tooth enamel from plaque and acid recommends the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) With seals for all school-age children. Sealants may last for several years before they need to be replaced, but they should be checked regularly.
Drink tap water. Most public water supplies have added fluoride, which can help reduce tooth decay significantly. If you only drink bottled water that does not contain fluoride, you will be depriving yourself of the benefits of fluoride..
Avoid snacking or drinking too much Whenever you eat or drink other than water, you help oral bacteria produce acids that can destroy tooth enamel. And if you snack or drink throughout the day, your teeth will be at constant risk.
Eat foods that maintain dental health There are some foods and drinks that are better for your teeth than others Avoid eating foods that stick in the grooves and cavities of the teeth for long periods, such as potato chips, candy or biscuits, or brush your teeth quickly after eating them However, they can increase foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, from saliva flow; Unsweetened coffee, unsweetened tea, and sugar-free gum help clean up food particles.
Try fluoride treatments. Your dentist may recommend periodic fluoride treatments, especially if you’re not getting enough through drinking water and other sources of fluoride. They may also recommend custom plaques that fit over your teeth to apply prescription fluoride if your risk of tooth decay is very high. You have.
Ask about antibacterial treatments. If you’re at particular risk of tooth decay due to a medical condition, for example, your dentist may recommend a special antibacterial mouthwash or other treatments to help reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth..