Tooth Decay

Cavities are small openings or holes in the hard surface of your teeth that are permanently damaged. Cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are caused by a number of reasons, including germs in the mouth, frequent snacking, drinking sugary beverages, and not brushing your teeth thoroughly.

Cavities and dental decay are two of the most common health issues worldwide. Children, teenagers, and older persons are more susceptible. Cavities can affect anyone with teeth, including infants.

Cavities that aren't addressed become larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth if they aren't treated. They can cause a lot of pain, infection, and tooth loss. Your best defence against cavities and tooth decay is regular dental appointments and proper brushing and flossing routines.

Symptoms

Cavities have different signs and symptoms based on their size and location. You may not have any symptoms at all when a cavity is just getting started. As the deterioration progresses, it may produce symptoms such as:

• Toothache, often known as "spontaneous pain," is discomfort that happens for no apparent reason.
• Sensitive teeth
• Pain that ranges from mild to severe while eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold.
• Teeth with visible holes or pits
• Any surface of a tooth might be stained brown, black, or white.
• When you bite down, it hurts.

Causes

Cavities are created by tooth decay, which is a gradual process. The following is how tooth decay occurs:

Plaque forms - Plaque is a sticky, transparent film that coats your teeth. It's caused by a diet high in sugars and starches, as well as a lack of dental hygiene. When sugars and starches aren't removed from your teeth, bacteria feast on them and plaque forms. Tartar can form when plaque remains on your teeth, either below or above the gum line (calculus). Tartar makes plaque removal more difficult and acts as a barrier for bacteria.

Plaque attacks - Plaque acids dissolve minerals in the strong outer enamel of your teeth. Cavities begin as microscopic openings or holes in the enamel as a result of this degradation. Bacteria and acid can enter the dentin layer of your teeth if sections of enamel have been worn away. This layer is softer and less acid resistant than enamel. Sensitivity is caused by small tubes in the dentin that communicate directly with the nerve of the tooth.

Destruction continues - As dental decay progresses, bacteria and acid continue to eat away at your teeth, eventually reaching the inner tooth structure, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The bacteria causes the pulp to swell and become irritating. Because there is no room inside a tooth for swelling to spread, the nerve becomes squeezed, causing pain. Discomfort might even extend to the bone beyond the tooth root.

Factors that are at risk

Cavities can affect everyone who has teeth, however the following circumstances can make it more likely:

• The location of the tooth. The back teeth are the most susceptible to decay. These teeth have several grooves, pits, and nooks, as well as various roots, all of which can accumulate food particles. As a result, they're more difficult to keep clean than your front teeth, which are smoother and easier to reach.
• Dry mouth. A lack of saliva causes dry mouth, which prevents tooth decay by washing away food and plaque from your teeth. Saliva contains substances that help to neutralise the acid produced by bacteria. By lowering saliva production, certain medications, medical conditions, radiation to the head or neck, and chemotherapy drugs can raise your risk of cavities.
• Eating disorders. Tooth erosion and cavities are common side effects of anorexia and bulimia. Stomach acid from frequent vomiting (purging) runs over the teeth, causing the enamel to dissolve. Saliva production might also be hampered by eating problems.

Complications

Cavities and tooth decay are so widespread that it's easy to overlook them. You might also believe that cavities in children's infant teeth are unimportant. Cavities and dental decay, on the other hand, can have catastrophic and long-term consequences, even in children who do not yet have their permanent teeth.

Cavity complications might include:

• Pain
• Abscess of the tooth
• Around a tooth, there is swelling or pus.
• Teeth that have been damaged or broken
• Problems with chewing
• After tooth loss, teeth shift in position.

Prevention

Cavities and tooth decay can be avoided with good oral and dental hygiene. Here are some pointers to help you avoid cavities. Inquire with your dentist about the best tips for you.

• After eating or drinking, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal, with fluoride toothpaste. Floss or use an interdental cleaner to clean between your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water. If your dentist believes you are at high risk of developing cavities, he or she may advise you to use a fluoride-containing mouth rinse.
• Visit your dentist on a regular basis. Get professional teeth cleanings and oral exams on a regular basis to help prevent problems or detect them early. Your dentist can advise you on the best schedule for you.
• Avoid snacking and sipping on a regular basis. When you consume beverages other than water, you aid your mouth bacteria in producing acids that can erode tooth enamel. Your teeth are constantly under attack if you snack or drink throughout the day.
• Consume tooth-friendly foods. Some foods and beverages are more beneficial to your teeth than others. Avoid foods that get stuck in the grooves and pits of your teeth for long periods of time, or brush your teeth immediately after eating them. Fresh fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, increase saliva flow, and unsweetened coffee, tea, and sugar-free gum help wash away food particles.
• Take a look at fluoride treatments. Periodic fluoride treatments may be recommended by your dentist, especially if you aren't getting enough fluoride from fluoridated drinking water and other sources. If your risk of tooth decay is very high, he or she may also recommend custom trays that fit over your teeth for the application of prescription fluoride.

When should you see a dentist?

It's possible that you're not even aware that a cavity is forming. Even though your mouth feels fine, it's crucial to have regular dental examinations and cleanings. If you have a toothache or mouth pain, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.

To meet the best dentist in Bangalore, contact now to book an appointment 7676206206 Tooth Affair

At Tooth Affair, we are known for providing best dental   health care services to all individuals. Backed by a state of the art infrastructural facility and a dedicated & well-trained staff, our dental care center has carved a niche in the industry by offering excellent Oral and Dental services at all levels. We believe in serving our patients with utmost care and concern. The dental specialists at Tooth Affair use most advanced equipment and technology to give you the award-winning smile and attractive look.