Healthy, sparkling teeth

After common cold, dental caries are the second more common problem people suffer from. Tooth decay can happen to anyone, but is primarily seen in children and young adults and often people lose a tooth too. It is important to understand that plaque starts building up within 20 minutes of eating. If the cavities are discovered at an early stage, the chances of saving the tooth are higher or reversing it is very much possible.

What is tooth decay?

Bacteria live in mouth.  This bacteria, acid, food bits and saliva in the mouth form a sticky substance which is called plaque. This plaque damages the enamel and the layer beneath it and digs holes called cavities. The plaque then settles down in cracks, near the gum line, in-between spaces etc. When it is not brushed away from the teeth, it turns into tartar that irritates the gums and causes gingivitis and periodontitis.

Causes

·  Sticky carbohydrates: Sugar and starch stick to the teeth and cause tooth decay. This includes fruit juices, candies and chocolates etc.

·  Dry mouth: Reduced saliva increases caries as there is no or less saliva to counterbalance the acidic content created by certain foods. This contributes to tooth decay.

·  Radiation: Those undergoing head and neck radiations may suffer from damaged cells in the salivary glands. This may also increase the possibility of dental caries.

·  Tobacco consumption: Smokeless tobacco often has high sugar levels which poses threat for periodontal problems.

·   Chewing on ice: Ice is hard frozen cubes and can crack or chip your teeth or the soft tissue within. The sticky food within can get stuck within this crack and not get cleaned with brush leading to decay.

·  Cough and other syrups: Cough syrups are high on sugar. Even though they may soothe your throat and benefit you otherwise, it may harm your teeth. Hence, it is advisible to brush thoroughly after drinking the syrup

·  Sleeping with milk bottles: Babies generally doze off while milk bottles still in their mouth. This practice must be checked as the sugar could damage the teeth.

·  Exposed tooth roots: Roots exposed by receding gums also can develop decay. The root’s outer layer, cementum, is not as thick as enamel. Acids from plaque bacteria can dissolve it rapidly.

Symptoms

·  Tooth ache – especially on consuming sweet, hot or cold edibles

·  Visible holes in the teeth

·  Chalky white spots may indicate early caries

·  Cause bad breath and foul tastes

Treatment

·  Fillings: The decayed portion is cleaned and filled with silver alloy, gold, porcelain or composite resin.

·  Crowns/caps: Crowns are used only to protect if there is only little or frail tooth left. Large fillings up the risk of tooth breaking.

·  Root canals: Root canal is performed if there is a dead nerve and the tooth dies due to no blood supply. The roots are sealed and a cap fitted on it.

If ignored

Most often early cavities do not make their existence felt and are identified only when the enamel is gone. However, if it goes unattended it could lead to

·  Discomfort followed by acute pain

·  Fractured or broken tooth

·  Abscess

·  Sensitive teeth

Prevention

·  Visiting dentist bi-annually.

·  Rinsing mouth after every binge and brushing twice a day-especially after eating sticky, sugary foods

·  Flossing regularly

·  Using dental sealants that acts as a barrier from plaque

·  Regular use of fluoride – be it through toothpastes, fluoride supplements or local application over the teeth.

·  Use antibacterial mouth rinses

-windowtonews