Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common health problems, affecting people of almost all ages around the world. This condition, which directly threatens oral and dental health, can cause not only aesthetic concerns but also serious tooth loss, painful processes and complications affecting general health if not intervened in time. Caries negatively affects not only oral health, but also a person’s quality of life and nutrition.
Although tooth decay may seem like a simple disorder, underlying complex biological processes and factors directly related to lifestyle lie. Raising awareness about the formation mechanism, main causes and symptoms of caries is of great importance to prevent this problem and control it in the early period.
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is a disease that begins with the damage over time to the hard enamel tissue that protects the tooth surface, and as it progresses, it reaches the deeper layers of the tooth and can cause serious problems. Bacteria naturally found in the mouth produce acid by interacting with sugar and carbohydrates. This acid gradually erodes tooth enamel and causes cavities over time. If this process is not stopped, it can progress to the soft tissues and nerves inside the tooth, causing excruciating pain and infections.
Although tooth decay is common, this problem can be largely prevented with simple habits. However, first of all, it is necessary to understand the causes and symptoms of caries, and then to be conscious to protect our oral health by taking the right precautions.
Why Do Our Teeth Decay?
- Nutrition Habits
Frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods is one of the main causes of tooth decay. Sugar is an essential food source for bacteria living in the mouth, and the bacteria ferment sugar to produce acid.
- Poor Oral Hygiene
Not brushing your teeth regularly and not using dental floss causes bacterial plaque to accumulate on the tooth surface. This plaque can harden over time, turning into tartar and accelerating tooth decay.
- Deficiency of Saliva
Saliva reduces the effect of bacteria by washing tooth surfaces. Reduced salivation increases the risk of dry mouth and therefore caries.
- Genetic Factors
The tooth enamel structure of some individuals may be genetically weaker. This leaves them vulnerable to decay.
Caries Symptoms
Although tooth decay usually does not show any symptoms in the initial stages, various disorders occur as it progresses. One of the first symptoms is increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks. As the decay progresses, toothaches may be felt while chewing or spontaneously.
Additionally, brown, black or white spots and small pits may appear on the tooth surface; These visual changes usually indicate that the decay is advanced. Increased bacteria in the mouth due to caries can also lead to bad breath, which can negatively affect a person’s social life. These symptoms indicate the seriousness of tooth decay and the need for timely treatment.
How to Treat Tooth Decay
Caries treatment is carried out by different methods depending on the size and progression level of the cavity. If the decay is at an early stage, remineralization of the enamel tissue can be achieved by applying fluoride, which helps preserve the natural structure of the tooth. However, if the decay is advanced, the damaged tissue is cleaned and a filling material is placed in its place; This method allows the bruised area to regain its function.
In more advanced cases, root canal treatment may be required when the decay reaches the nerves and vessels on the inside of the tooth; During this procedure, the infected tissue is cleaned and the inside of the tooth is filled and closed with a special material. If the decay has caused the tooth to be so damaged that it cannot be saved, tooth extraction is performed as a last resort. Regardless of the treatment methods, it should not be forgotten that preventing tooth decay and early intervention is always easier and effortless.
How Do We Prevent Caries?
Preventing tooth decay is vital to maintaining a healthy oral structure, and this risk can be greatly reduced with simple habits. First of all, regular brushing of teeth is a basic protection method. Carefully brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste prevents plaque buildup and acid formation.
In addition, flossing is also necessary to clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth; Dental floss prevents the formation of cavities by removing food debris and plaque from areas where the brush cannot reach. Healthy nutrition also serves as an important shield against caries. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks prevents acid formation that damages tooth enamel; Consuming tooth-friendly foods such as vegetables, fruits and dairy products supports oral health.
In addition, regular dentist check-ups enable early detection of caries, and small interventions can prevent the problem from growing larger. Visiting your dentist every 6 months is very useful in this process. Supporting saliva production is also a critical factor for oral health; Saliva acts as a protective barrier for teeth and neutralizes acids. Chewing sugar-free gum or drinking plenty of water prevents dry mouth and reduces the risk of cavities by increasing saliva production.
These simple yet effective measures offer the best ways to prevent tooth decay and create a strong foundation for a healthy smile in the long term.
Does tooth decay go away on its own?
Tooth decay does not go away on its own, and if left untreated, it progresses over time and causes more serious problems. In the early stages of decay, it may be possible to repair tooth enamel with minerals such as fluoride, but once the decay reaches the deeper layers of the tooth, professional intervention is essential.
Progressive decay can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Therefore, it is extremely important not to take tooth decay lightly and to visit your dentist regularly and get the necessary treatment.