Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a common, diet-related condition that leads to the gradual loss of minerals from the tooth’s hard surface. Initially, tooth decay may appear as a white or dark spot on the enamel, but as more minerals are lost, it can form a cavity or hole. If left untreated, decay can progress to the center of the tooth (the pulp), potentially leading to toothache and more severe complications.
Recent research shows that 1 in 3 adults over 15 have untreated tooth decay, and 1 in 3 children aged 5-6 have experienced decay in baby teeth. Understanding what tooth decay looks like and how it progresses is essential to taking action early.
How Tooth Decay Occurs
Millions of bacteria live in the mouth and form a sticky, soft layer on the teeth called dental plaque. These bacteria consume sugars from food and drinks, creating acid as a by-product. This acid dissolves the crystals in the tooth enamel, leading to mineral loss and weakened teeth. Over time, this causes visible signs of decay, such as white spots, black spots, and cavities.
The Protective Role of Saliva
Saliva plays a vital role in protecting against tooth decay. It helps by:
- Washing sugar out of the mouth and into the stomach
- Neutralizing acids to prevent damage
- Fighting harmful bacteria
- Repairing early decay by replenishing tooth minerals
If the acid levels in the mouth exceed the protective effect of saliva, tooth decay is likely to occur.
Prevention of Tooth Decay
Preventing tooth decay is possible with the right habits:
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary foods.
- Avoid sugary snacks between meals; if you consume sweets, try to have them with meals.
- Drink water (preferably containing fluoride) instead of sugary beverages or juice.
- Watch out for hidden sugars in snacks, cereals, and packaged foods.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to reduce harmful bacteria.
- Chew sugar-free gum after meals to boost saliva flow and protect teeth.
- Seal deep grooves on teeth with a fissure sealant if recommended by your dentist.
- Avoid putting sweet drinks like juice or milk in babies' bottles at night.
- Wipe babies' teeth with a moist cloth after night bottles if they are too young to brush.
Treatment of Tooth Decay
Early tooth decay is reversible. Saliva can restore minerals to the tooth surface, and dietary improvements and better oral hygiene can help.
Your dentist can also apply fluoride or other treatments to strengthen the enamel and reverse early decay. Regular dental visits (every 6-12 months) are essential to catch decay early, ideally before a filling is necessary. X-rays may also be used to detect decay in hard-to-see areas.
If decay progresses and forms a cavity, a filling may be required. The dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and restore it with filling material. Early intervention is key to preventing decay from spreading further, which can weaken the tooth.
As decay worsens, you may experience sensitivity to sweet, cold, or hot foods and drinks. If you feel discomfort, it’s best to speak with your dentist to assess and treat the decay. Untreated decay that reaches the pulp may require root canal treatment.
At Dent Heal, we emphasize the importance of preventing tooth decay from recurring. Simply filling a cavity won’t stop new decay from developing elsewhere in the mouth. By focusing on healthy habits and regular check-ups, you can prevent decay and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.