Dental Caries: What Causes Tooth Decay?

Dental caries refers to the perforation of teeth. Many different factors may be involved in its emergence. However, dental caries is mainly related to diet, bacteria and saliva components.

Dental caries first damages tooth enamel, the surface layer of the tooth. It then progresses gradually until it reaches its tooth mass, the innermost part of the tooth.

Sugar products feed on bacteria that destroy tooth enamel.

Why do dental caries occur?

Bacteria are not the only thing that leads to this disease. There are other risk factors as well:

• Low oral pH due to ingestion of carbonated drinks, sour foods, etc.
• A diet high in sugar and sticky foods.
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Low saliva production.
• A tooth clog that makes cleaning difficult.
• Enamel abnormalities such as hypoplasia (thin and damaged mica).
• Periodontal disease.

Perforation begins as white dots with a chalky structure that appear on the tooth surface due to thinning and weakening of the enamel. If the mineral continues to disappear, the condition worsens and dark, black-yellow holes appear.

As cavities worsen, dental caries can even halve a tooth. When dental caries extends to the dentin, the tooth becomes very sensitive to cold, warm and sweet food. When that happens, it’s time to visit the patch at the latest.

If not treated in time, dental caries will continue to progress. When it gets into its tooth mass, the pain is intense. Unfortunately, it is possible that an infection or dental abscess may form in the root portion of the tooth. When dental caries reaches this point, root canal treatment is the only treatment.

Dental caries and its prevention

Prevent dental caries in these easy ways:

1. Proper oral hygiene that removes plaque

Adopt a way to brush your teeth at least twice a day as it is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay. Mechanical brushing removes plaque and food debris that has accumulated on the teeth, serving as a breeding ground for bad bacteria.

Your dentist can teach you to brush your teeth the right way and recommend a toothbrush and toothpaste that suits the individual needs of each patient.

2. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash

It is very important that the toothpaste and mouthwash contain added fluoride. It helps teeth regain lost minerals and helps strengthen enamel.

Mouthwash and toothpaste also help your teeth become more resistant to bacteria that corrode the enamel minerals.

In addition to brushing and flossing, you can also use the following additional methods to prevent dental caries:

• Change your diet : enjoy less sugar and sugary foods.
• See your dentist at least once a year (some recommend twice a year).
• Use tooth seals on children.

If you suspect you have had a hole, it is recommended that you see a dentist to correct the problem and prevent it from getting worse in the future.

Keep in mind that the preventative measures we mentioned in this article will never replace traditional brushing. Brushing, brushing your teeth with floss and using a mouthwash containing fluoride are essential ways to prevent dental caries.