Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth tissue caused by the presence of acids produced by bacteria from plaque deposited on tooth surfaces.
Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth tissue caused by the presence of acids produced by bacteria from plaque deposited on tooth surfaces. This tooth decay is highly influenced by lifestyle, that is, it influences what we eat, the way we take care of our teeth (our hygiene habits), the presence of fluoride in the salt and the toothpaste we use. Heredity also plays a role in how susceptible your teeth are to cavities.
While tooth decay is more common in children, adults are also at risk for it. Types of cavities include:
º Crown cavities: They are the most common, occur in both children and adults, and generally on chewing surfaces or between teeth.
º Root caries: as we age, the gums retract, exposing parts of the tooth root. Since the roots are not covered by enamel, these exposed areas can be easily affected.
º Recurrent cavities: can form around existing fillings and crowns. It happens because these areas have a tendency to accumulate plaque, which eventually leads to the formation of cavities.
Adults are at particular risk of tooth decay if they suffer from dry mouth, which is a disorder caused by a lack of saliva due to some diseases, the use of some medications, and radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Dry mouth can be temporary or permanent, depending on its origin.
Cavities can be serious because, if left untreated, they can destroy the tooth and kill the delicate nerves inside, which can lead to an abscess (an infection at the end of the root). Once an abscess has formed, the only possible treatment is endodontics (also called root canal treatment), surgery, or tooth extraction.
How do I know if I have a cavity?
Only your dentist can determine for sure if you have a cavity. This is because cavities develop below the surface of the tooth, where you cannot see them. When you eat foods that contain carbohydrates (sugars and starches), plaque bacteria consume them and produce acids that destroy the tooth. Over time, tooth enamel begins to demineralize and a cavity forms.
Cavities are most likely to develop in the pits on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, between the teeth, and near the gum. However, regardless of where they appear, the best way to locate and treat them before they become serious is to visit the dentist and have regular check-ups or check-ups.
How can I help prevent cavities?
º Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss and mouthwash daily to remove plaque from between the teeth and under the gums.
º Get regular dental checkups. Preventive care helps prevent problems from occurring and minor problems from becoming major ones.
º Eat a balanced diet restricted in foods with starches or sugars. When eating these foods, try to eat it with a meal rather than between meals to minimize the number of times you expose your teeth to acidic bacteria.
º Use dental products that contain fluoride, including toothpaste.
º Make sure the water your children drink contains an adequate level of fluoride. The massive measure to obtain the necessary fluoride for the teeth is the salt; It should not be consumed in areas where natural water contains large amounts of fluoride and in that case salt without fluoride will be used. Check with your local health authority to find out what type of salt to consume.
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