Tooth Decay: Prevention, Causes and Treatment
Tooth decay is the breakdown of the tooth’s structure and can impact both the enamel and the dentin layer of the tooth. Tooth decay happens when foods that contain carbohydrates (sugars and starches) remain on the teeth. The bacteria that lives in the mouth them digest these foods, turning them into acids.
A reaction occurs which combines the bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva and turns them into plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in the plaque them begin to dissolve the teeth’s enamel, creating the holes which are commonly known as cavities.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
While tooth decay is a potential result of simply eating regular foods but failing to maintain poor hygiene, there are some scenarios that can greatly increase the likelihood of a person experiencing tooth decay.
Eating foods that are high in sugar or sticky foods can degrade the teeth over time. These days, many people resort to fast foods because they are on the go and these foods are convenient to eat. However, fast foods are a prime contributor to the start of tooth decay in many individuals. People who eat fast foods often develop an imbalance in their diets because these foods do not contain all of the nutrients needed to maintain their oral health.
Finally, a lesser known cause of tooth decay is extreme dieting. When people diet to the extreme, they often don’t eat enough of the right kinds of foods or get the required minerals and nutrients necessary for tooth maintenance.
What Are the Treatment Options for Tooth Decay?
There are several treatment for tooth decay options. The options that are available to you depend on your overall health and oral health, as well as, the results that you are looking to achieve. Dental restorations are one of the prime treatment options for tooth decay and will help you to save your teeth and avoid any further degradation of your natural teeth.
Typically, amalgam fillings or glass ionomer cement restorations are used to treat tooth decay. An oral surgeon may also opt to install dental crowns or perform a root canal treatment to treat your tooth decay.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay?
The best way to prevent tooth decay is to eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, keep your sugar intake low, and make sure to consume calcium-rich foods. In addition, you should brush and floss at least twice per day and see a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Contact Us
Lygon Family Dental is your family-friendly dentist located in Brunswick East. Our highly experienced and professional team will help meet all your dental care needs. If you have any questions or enquiries, or you would like to schedule an appointment, call us today on (03) 9939 0323.
