Our teeth are not just for eating; they maintain facial aesthetics and play a crucial role in clear speech, digestion, and overall health. Learning how to protect these valuable structures is the first step toward improving your overall well-being.
For in-depth insights into the causes of tooth decay and how to prevent it, stay with us till the end.
Tooth Decay: What is It?
Tooth decay is also known as dental caries or cavities. A cavity is a hole in the tooth due to a weakness in its structural integrity. There are many reasons for decaying teeth, such as bacteria, acid, improper hygiene, etc.
Dental cavities fall into three categories: smooth surface cavities, pit and fissure decay, and dental root decay. Dental decay is very prevalent in children because of improper brushing, though adults get caries or cavities as well. A higher prevalence of receding gums in adults exposes the tooth root to plaque formation, thus leading to tooth decay.
Why Do Teeth Decay?
The most common causes of decaying teeth include the following:
Bacteria
Eating sugary foods promotes oral bacterial growth. Bacteria convert the carbohydrates in these foods to acid, leading to enamel damage and tooth decay.
Erosion
Weakness of the dental enamel due to improper flossing or brushing, teeth grinding, exposure to acidic foods, etc. promotes erosion and decay.
Plaque Formation
Plaque is the yellow or white sticky stuff on your teeth that promotes decay. Its formation results from a mixture of food, saliva, bacteria, and acid in the oral cavity.
What Are The Risk Factors For Tooth Decay?
Although anyone can have dental caries, some people are more prone to decaying teeth than others. These include:
Genetic Predisposition
Research suggests that approximately 60% of tooth decay is due to genetic features, such as enamel strength, oral bacteria levels, oral pH, etc.
Oral and Gut Health
People with lower saliva concentration and dry mouth or suffering from stomach issues (gastritis) are more prone to developing cavities.
Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene practices are a well-known risk factor for developing dental decay. This is why children are more prone to tooth decay.
Diet Choices
A diet high in sugar, carbonated drinks, and sweet drinks promotes oral bacterial growth and plaque formation.
What Are The Stages Of Teeth Decay?
Decaying teeth undergo five stages. These include:
- Demineralization: Small, chalky spots appear on the dental enamel due to loss of minerals. These are signs of the early stage of tooth decay.
- Enamel Damage: Left untreated, demineralization leads to the formation of holes (cavities) in the tooth surface.
- Dentin Damage: Holes in the enamel allow plaque and bacteria to access the soft dentin, causing sensitivity and black teeth to decay.
- Pulp Decay: When the tooth decay reaches the pulp (innermost part of the tooth), it causes pain, discomfort, and gum swelling.
- Dental Abscess: Untreated tooth decay can cause infection and abscess formation, which eventually lead to irreversible damage of the tooth root.
What Are The Symptoms Of Teeth Decay?
People with decaying teeth may experience symptoms such as discoloration or spots, sensitivity, toothache, facial swelling, bad breath, and swollen or bleeding gums and jaws.
What Are the Common Sites for Tooth Decay?
Decaying teeth commonly include the back teeth (molars and premolars). This is because of the rough structure and ridges of these teeth. Food is more likely to get stuck in the molar teeth, resulting in decay.
Also, the wisdom teeth (3rd molars) due to their location and the tendency to get impacted are highly susceptible to cavity formation. It is also very difficult to properly clean wisdom teeth and maintain dental hygiene.
The front teeth decay or cavities occur less frequently compared to the back teeth. Cavities in the front teeth are usually a result of grinding, trauma, medications, etc.
Can You Stop Tooth Decay?
In the very early stages of the decay process (demineralization stage), it may be possible to stop or even reverse tooth decay. The enamel has the tendency to repair itself by obtaining the minerals from saliva and other external sources (toothpaste).
Once the demineralization progresses to advanced stages or a cavity reaches the dentin, a visit to the dentist is advisable for repair and treatment.
How to Prevent Teeth from Decaying?
You can prevent tooth decay and ensure healthy teeth by:
- Maintain oral hygiene by regular brushing and flossing.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Avoid carbonated drinks and sugary foods.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste or drink fluoridated water.
- Avoid excess junk food or packaged food (hidden sugars).
- Maintain hydration.
- Chew sugar-free gum to maintain saliva levels after eating.
- Consult a physician for any health conditions or medications causing dry mouth.
By incorporating these practices in your daily life, you can preserve your teeth and beautiful smile for a lifetime.
