What is Tooth Decay?
Millions of bacteria live inside the human mouth and sugar from foods and drinks feed some of these bacteria giving them energy to make acid.
This acid attacks the surface of your teeth causing the enamel minerals to dissolve. This is called demineralisation.
Together saliva and fluoride toothpaste protect your teeth by stopping the acid attacks and putting the minerals back into your teeth. This is called remineralisation.
By regularly having sugary foods and drinks, the saliva and fluoride toothpaste may not be able to keep up in replacing the lost tooth minerals. When too many minerals are lost and not enough are replaced, tooth decay can develop.
If tooth decay is only in the enamel layer, it can still be stopped. Once it travels to the inner dentine layer, the tooth may need a filling.
Remember to look out for foods with hidden sugars, eat a diet low in sugar and brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste to decrease your risk of developing tooth decay.
Visit your dentist regularly to prevent problems and keep on smiling.
Tooth Decay by the Australian Dental Association
More About Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a common condition that affects oral health. It occurs when the hard surface of teeth is damaged, leading to the formation of cavities.
Causes of Tooth Decay
There are various causes of tooth decay and these can be managed by the choices you make and habits you form.
Plaque
One of the main causes of tooth decay is plaque buildup, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth when sugars from food interact with the saliva in your mouth. This plaque hardens into tartar if not removed through regular brushing and flossing.
Sugar
Sugar plays a significant role in the development of tooth decay. When we consume sugary drinks and foods, bacteria feed on these sugars and produce acids as byproducts. These acids attack tooth enamel, leading to demineralisation and cavities over time.
It’s important to note that not just sweets contribute to this; carbohydrates found in bread, pasta, and even fruits can also lead to increased acid production if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene practices are another major factor contributing to tooth decay. Inadequate brushing or skipping flossing allows plaque to accumulate unchecked, increasing the risk of cavities significantly. Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring oral health and addressing any issues before they escalate.
Diet
Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth. Foods high in fibre can help stimulate saliva production—our natural defense against acid buildup—while calcium-rich foods strengthen enamel. Conversely, frequent snacking on sugary or acidic items can harm your teeth over time.
Being aware of the causes of tooth decay — from plaque accumulation due to sugar consumption and poor oral hygiene practices to dietary choices — can empower you to take proactive steps towards preventing tooth decay effectively.
Recognising Symptoms Early
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
One of the first signs of tooth decay is increased sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages. You may experience sharp pain or discomfort, which often indicates that the enamel has been compromised.
Discoloration of Teeth
Changes in colour, such as brown, black, or white spots on your teeth, can signal the presence of cavities. This occurs due to the breakdown of enamel caused by acid-producing bacteria.
Visible Holes or Pits
As tooth decay progresses, you may notice small holes or pits on the surface of your teeth. These are clear signs that intervention is needed before further damage occurs.
Persistent Bad Breath
Also known as halitosis, chronic bad breath can be linked to decaying teeth and gum disease caused by bacteria buildup.
Pain When Biting Down
If you experience pain when biting into food—especially hard items—it could indicate deeper issues within the tooth structure that require immediate attention.
Swelling or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums should not bleed during brushing or flossing; however, inflammation and bleeding may suggest an underlying problem related to tooth decay.
Stages of Tooth Decay
Initial Damage: Enamel Erosion
The first stage of tooth decay begins with enamel erosion, where the protective outer layer of the tooth becomes weakened due to acid attacks from bacteria in plaque. Poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary foods and beverages, and lack of fluoride contribute to this process. At this point, patients may notice white spots on their teeth, indicating demineralisation.
Dentine Involvement
If enamel erosion continues unchecked, it progresses to the dentine — this is the softer layer beneath the enamel. As bacteria penetrate through the enamel into the dentine, you may start experiencing sensitivity or pain when consuming hot or cold substances. This stage signifies that decay has advanced but can still be treated effectively with restorative procedures.
Pulp Infection
When left untreated, tooth decay can reach the pulp—the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels—leading to a pulp infection or abscess formation.
Symptoms at this stage include severe pain, swelling around the gums, and possible fever as an indication of systemic infection. A root canal treatment may be necessary to remove infected tissue and save the tooth; otherwise, tooth extraction might be required.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay
Here are some essential tips for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing tooth decay.
Regular Oral Hygiene Practices
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is crucial. Ensure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Don’t forget to floss daily, as this helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, areas where toothbrushes often miss.
Fluoride Use in Prevention
Fluoride is an essential mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Using fluoride toothpaste is one way to ensure you’re getting enough of this protective agent, but you can also consider fluoride mouth rinses or treatments from your dentist if you’re at higher risk for cavities. More about types of toothpaste.
Healthy Diet for Teeth
Your diet plays a significant role in your dental health. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products into your meals while limiting sugary snacks and beverages that can promote tooth decay. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, D, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium play key roles in maintaining strong teeth.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and reduces acidity levels in the mouth which can contribute to erosion of enamel.
Regular Dental Visits
Schedule regular dental check-ups with your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and examinations. This allows any potential issues like cavities or gum disease to be caught early before they develop into more significant problems.
Avoid Tobacco & Vaping
Smoking or using other tobacco products can harm both oral health by increasing plaque buildup as well as reducing blood flow to gums which hinders healing processes after dental work or injury.
Avon Valley Dental Centre in Northam
By implementing these practices into your daily routine along with being mindful of what you eat and drink ,you’ll be taking proactive steps towards ensuring long-term oral health while effectively preventing tooth decay. For assistance or to make an appointment, please contact us or book online.
