Tooth decay is caused by acids produced by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth. These bacteria convert the food we consume, especially sugary and starchy foods, into acids. The bacteria, feeding on food particles, lead to plaque formation. Plaque, which adheres to the teeth, usually settles on the surfaces of molars and lower incisors. Plaque, which can form on all teeth and along the gum lines, turns into tartar and calculus if not removed. Plaque and tartar irritate the gums, resulting in gingivitis (gum inflammation).
Plaque begins to form on the tooth surface approximately twenty minutes after eating. Untreated plaque hardens over time, turning into tartar. The acids in plaque damage tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Tooth decay often doesn't cause any pain until it grows and affects the nerves, which is why it's frequently neglected. Untreated tooth decay leads to infections, damaging the pulp tissue inside the tooth. Depending on the severity of the infection, root canal treatment or, in advanced cases, tooth extraction may be necessary. Carbohydrate consumption is a significant factor increasing the risk of tooth decay. Sticky foods are even more harmful because they can adhere to tooth surfaces. Decaying teeth can cause severe infections that spread to different parts of the body, increasing the risk of heart disease and damaging the immune system. Therefore, decayed teeth pose a significant risk not only to oral and dental health but also to overall health. You can take precautions against cavities by having frequent tartar cleanings. Dentrum Private Oral and Dental Health Clinic in Adana explains what should be done to prevent tooth decay.
What should be done to prevent tooth decay?
Tooth decay is essentially holes and structural damage that occur in teeth. It is an extremely common ailment in the general population. Frequently seen in children and young adults, tooth decay can occur in people of all ages. It is the most common cause of tooth loss, especially in young individuals. The longer a decayed tooth remains untreated, the deeper the decay affects the tooth, resulting in more extensive damage. Untreated tooth decay continues to grow and penetrate deeper. Decay reaching the pulp, nerves, and blood vessels can create severe infections. An infection in the pulp carries the risk of spreading to different parts of the body. If the damage caused by decay affects the tooth root, it may not be possible to save the tooth, and it must be extracted.
To treat cavities, it is necessary to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Can Tooth Decay Be Treated at Home?
A tooth cavity can only be repaired by a dentist. Therefore, you should consult your dentist immediately without seeking any other solution. However, you can take some precautions to prevent cavities from forming.
Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice a day and using dental floss can help remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
Using Mouthwash
To strengthen your teeth and prevent plaque buildup, be sure to use mouthwash.
Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
Excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods is a major cause of tooth decay. These foods facilitate the growth of bacteria.
Drink plenty of water.
Drinking water helps remove food particles and bacteria from the tooth surface, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Don't neglect your routine dental checkups and get frequent dental cleanings.
Regular dental appointments are necessary so that cavities can be detected and treated promptly before they lead to significant health problems. Having professional dental cleanings is also one of the most effective ways to prevent potential cavities.
What happens if a decayed tooth isn't extracted?
Untreated decayed teeth can lead to infection. This damages the pulp tissue located inside the tooth, requiring more extensive treatment and potentially resulting in tooth loss. If we examine the possible consequences of untreated tooth decay one by one:
It damages the immune system.
Poor and inadequate oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. Over time, these bacteria enter the bloodstream and spread to different parts of the body, damaging the immune system. This can leave the body vulnerable to potential illnesses.
It increases the risk of heart disease.
Scientific studies show that bacteria that cause periodontal disease and tooth decay are linked to heart disease. Plaque buildup can cause gum disease as well as heart disease. Plaque that reaches the inside of arteries can impair blood flow and increase the risk of heart disease.
It worsens existing health problems.
If you already have health problems like HIV, osteoporosis, and diabetes, unhealthy bacteria can worsen these conditions. A weakened immune system due to bacteria can aggravate numerous chronic illnesses.
It brings infections with it.
Tooth decay often begins as a small cavity in the tooth. If left untreated, this cavity affects the pulp tissue. The pulp contains blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves. If decay is left untreated, bacteria can reach the soft tissues, causing severe toothaches. The resulting tooth infection can progress to life-threatening areas.
How can you tell if tooth decay is progressing?
Tooth decay may not show any symptoms. However, as the decay progresses, some symptoms will appear. These symptoms are as follows:
Tooth Sensitivity
If tooth decay progresses, sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks will begin.
Holes and Pits
The formation of cavities and holes in your teeth is also a sign of progressing tooth decay.
Tooth Discoloration
The appearance of brown, black, or white stains and spots on your teeth is also a sign of advancing tooth decay.
Bad Breath and Bad Taste in the Mouth
Bacteria that cause tooth decay and settle in the mouth lead to bad breath and an unpleasant taste.
Redness and swelling in the gums.
Advanced tooth decay leads to infection and inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. This causes the gums to become swollen and red.
Are Decayed Teeth Dangerous?
Advanced tooth decay can cause teeth to break and lead to more severe damage. Infections caused by decayed teeth can spread to different parts of the body, damaging the immune system and increasing the risk of heart attack.
