Dental Caries | Caries Reasons & Caries Development, learn with medstom about the Dental Caries Solution
Dental Caries.
Dental caries is one of the most common oral diseases. It is the demineralization of the hard tooth structures (enamel, dentin and cementum of the tooth) as a result of the acids that are produced during the decomposition of carbohydrates by microorganisms.
Detection of caries in the patient's mouth is one of the main tasks of dentists in performing clinical examinations. If caries is not treated, it can cause pain, infection, and sometimes even tooth loss.
Caries Reasons
Our mouth is full of bacteria. These bacteria combine with food to form a soft, sticky biofilm called plaque. The bacteria in the plaque use the sugar in the food and beverages we consume to form acids. These acids, in turn, begin to eat away at the enamel's minerals, staying in the mouth longer, plaque forming a hard deposit called tartar. In addition to damaging teeth, plaque and tartar can also irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis.
Caries Development
One of the first signs of caries is the appearance of a white spot due to the demineralization of the tooth in this area.
If you notice such discoloration on your teeth, then consult a dentist immediately, because the earlier diagnosed problem is easier to reverse.
However, if you do not pay attention to this staining, the enamel will continue to lose its mineralization and weaken, which will lead to the formation of a cavity (hole in the tooth). This is a permanent injury that inevitably requires the intervention of a dentist.
Other symptoms of tooth caries are:
- Sensitivity of the teeth when eating sweet, hot or cold foods and drinks;
- Rupture of the interdental floss when cleaning the interdental space;
- Brownish colors, etc.
The main risk factors for the formation of dental caries are:
- Unsatisfactory oral hygiene;
- Frequent intake of sugars and carbohydrates;
- Taking medication;
- Heredity, etc.
Dental Caries Solution
How caries will be treated is determined by the stage of its development. As already mentioned, if the caries is in the initial stage (white spot type), it is possible to prevent its progression by applying various medications containing fluoride.
In cases where the carious process is advanced in the enamel and dentin, it is necessary to clean the carious lesion and restore the tooth with photopolymer (make a filling).
There are several steps you can take to prevent tooth decay:
- Make sure you get enough fluoride;
- Observe good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth regularly - at least 2 times a day;
- Avoid foods high in carbohydrates and sugars;
- See your dentist for follow-up check-ups - every 6 months.
