Dental caries are diseases of tooth tissue. They occur when the tooth enamel cracks, allowing bacteria to develop. The resulting bacterial colonies affect the hard tissue and lead to the formation of holes in the teeth and molars.
According to studies, tooth decay is the most widespread disease and affects over half of the world’s adult population. In Romania, over 90% of the adult population suffer from this disease.
This condition is not one that appears overnight, but is the result of an entire process of phenomena. The causes that lead to the formation of dental caries are numerous, the main factors causing this condition being the way the oral cavity is cared for, unhealthy eating habits, and the consumption of foods with high acidity. Other habits such as smoking and the consumption of concentrated beverages also result in the formation of dental caries. Specialist studies carried out over the years have shown that mood and genetic factors also determine the onset of this disease.
Dental caries, what are the main risk factors
The main factor determining the formation of tooth decay is poor oral hygiene, more precisely, the lack of it. Incorrectly performed brushing or its absence, not using dental floss and mouthwash, leads to the development of bacterial colonies that affect tooth enamel and form cavities.
A lack of fluoride is another factor that creates fertile ground for the formation of dental caries. This mineral increases tooth resistance to the attack by bacterial plaque and reduces the risk of this disease. Smoking, consumption of hard and sweet foods, and alcohol consumption are, according to researchers, factors that lead to the formation of caries.
Studies by specialists have revealed that there are numerous factors that lead to the formation of cavities which cannot be controlled, such as age, respiratory conditions that prevent normal breathing, diabetes mellitus, the use of medications with a high sugar content, and even the state of the immune system.
Tooth decay symptoms
Early cavities do not present major symptoms and can be discovered during a specialist dental check-up. Deep ones, however, can be accompanied by tooth sensitivity, pain, bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Teeth affected by tooth decay change colour, with grey, brown, or black spots being observed on their surface.
Many patients suffering from tooth decay experience severe pain on contact with hot, cold, or acidic liquids. Untreated forms of tooth decay lead to the appearance of abscesses and even tooth fracture and loss.
Classification of dental caries
There are several types of tooth decay. Depending on their location, there are three types of tooth decay:
Tooth decay They are located in grooves and pits, as well as on the smooth surfaces of incisors and molars. These cavities affect both children and adults and are mainly caused by poor hygiene and the consumption of unsuitable foods.
Root caries These are cavities that attack the roots of teeth. They develop with age. As gums recede, the roots remain unprotected, vulnerable to bacterial attack.
Secondary caries It affects the areas around older fillings. These spaces are more sensitive because they attract a larger number of bacteria.
Methods for preventing tooth decay
The most effective method of preventing tooth decay is maintaining proper hygiene. Two thorough brushings each day, along with the use of dental floss and mouthwash, are the most efficient ways to remove food debris and bacteria that develop in the spaces between teeth and at the gum line.
To maintain good oral hygiene, it is essential to use appropriate instruments that are in optimal condition.
Toothbrushes are therefore recommended to be replaced at least every 3 months to maintain their effectiveness.
Another measure that helps prevent cavities is regular visits to the dentist. The interventions during regular check-ups primarily aim at proper oral hygiene.
Removing plaque and tartar helps to maintain a minimum level of pathogens in the oral cavity. During a routine check-up, the dentist also carries out fluoride treatments for the teeth, which increase resistance to bacterial attacks.
Adopting a suitable diet low in sugars is another effective way of protecting your teeth from cavities. Hard and sweet foods should be avoided or consumed very rarely. However, if such foods are ingested, specialists recommend rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water. This procedure minimises the risk of developing tooth decay.
Another protective measure is to not subject your teeth to trauma.
In conclusion, dental caries are conditions that have repercussions on health and quality of life. To benefit from a good state of health, it is recommended to adopt and adhere to preventive measures.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Chiromax Dental Clinic for a consultation and a personalised treatment plan to relieve you of the stress and discomfort caused by tooth decay.