Tooth Decay
What are cavities? Tooth decay is the destruction of the tissues of the teeth caused by the presence of acids produced by bacteria in plaque deposited on the tooth surfaces. This deterioration of the teeth is very influenced by the lifestyle, i.e. influences what we eat, the way how we look after our teeth (our hygiene habits), the presence of fluorine in salt and toothpaste we use. Heredity also plays an important role in the susceptibility of your teeth to cavities. Although tooth decay tends to be more common in children, adults are also at risk for it. Types of tooth decay include: Caries of Crown: they are the most common, are both in children and in adults, and tickling on the chewing surfaces or between the teeth. Root caries: as we advance in age, the gums are retracted, leaving exposed parts of the root of the tooth. As the roots are not covered with enamel, these exposed areas can affect easily.
Tooth decay recurring: may form around existing crowns and fillings. It happens because these areas have a tendency to accumulate plate, which eventually results in the formation of cavities. Adults are at special risk for cavities if they suffer from dry mouth, which is a disorder caused by the lack of saliva due to some diseases, the use of some medications, and treatments of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Dry mouth can be temporary or permanent, depending on its origin. Cavities can be serious if left untreated, they may destroy the tooth and kill the delicate nerves of its interior, which can lead to an abscess (infection at the end of the root). Once formed an abscess, the only possible treatment is root canal treatment (also called the root canal treatment), surgery or tooth extraction.
How do I know if I have a cavity? Only your dentist can determine safely if you have tooth decay. This is due to that cavities develop beneath the surface of the tooth, where they can see them. When ingested foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), the plaque bacteria consume them and produce acids that destroy the tooth. Over time, the tooth enamel begins to demineralize is and thus a cavity is formed. Cavities are more likely to develop in the graves of the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth, between the teeth and close to the gingiva. However, no matter where they appear, the best way to locate and treat them before they become serious is visit the dentist and subjected to revisions or regular checks. How can I help to prevent tooth decay? Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss daily to remove plaque deposited between teeth and below the gumline. Undergo regular dental checkups. Preventive care helps to prevent problems from occurring and minor problems become major. Eat a balanced diet restricted in foods with starches or sugars. When you eat these foods, try it with a meal and not between meals to minimize the amount of times you expose your teeth to acid producing bacteria as well. Use dental products containing fluorine, including toothpaste. Make sure that the water they drink their children contains an adequate level of fluoride. The measure mass to obtain the necessary fluoride for teeth is salt; that you must not consumed in areas where natural water brings large amounts of fluoride and in that case will be used without fluoride salt. Consult your local health authority to find out what type of salt should be consumed.
