Tooth Decay

It is the damage that occurs when bacteria inside the mouth makes acid and eats away the tooth. This condition is called Tooth decay. It leads to formation of a hole in the tooth, referred to as cavity. If it is not treated in time, it leads to pain, infection and tooth loss. There are three layers in a tooth. These are:

• The outer layer is the enamel.
• The middle layer is the dentin.
• The centre layer is the pulp containing nerves and blood vessels.

Causes of Tooth decay:

The main cause of the tooth decay is bacteria and food. If bacteria feed on the plaque, it makes acid and attacks the tooth within 20 minutes after eating. These acids destroy tooth enamel causing tooth decay. Growing children are more likely to have these because of minerals in the new teeth are not strong enough and easier for acid to erode the tooth. Even babies have a risk due to sugar in milk formula or juice.

Some of the things to be remembered for tooth decay are:

• Not brushing and flossing the teeth regularly.
• Eating foods high in sugar content.
• Fluoride and saliva are not generated in enough quantities.
• Diabetes and smoking cause tooth decay.

Treatment and prevention:

• Filling if cavity is formed
• Replacement of crown cap
• Root canal
• Implantation of Tooth Bridge.

If pain and swelling occurs, apply ice or cold packs outside the mouth several times a day.

• Brush the teeth twice a day by using fluoride tooth paste.
• Visit the dentist regularly.
• Avoid food that contain sugar.