What You Don’t Know About Decay Can Hurt You
What is Decay?
Despite modern advances in dental technology and science, a bit of
mystery and controversy still surrounds the underlying causes
of tooth decay. But here’s what we do know:
Tooth decay begins as a bacterial infection. It is transmissible,
but preventable. Decay-causing bacteria mixes with acid, food
debris, and
saliva to form a sticky substance called plaque. This plaque
acts as a protective shield for bacteria, allowing it to grow and multiply.
Over time, the acid produced by bacteria breaks down and eats
a hole
in the tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, the acid and bacteria
will eventually reach the soft dentin. When bacteria penetrates the
dentin, infection can set in and spread to the tooth’s
nerve, unless the decay and bacteria are removed and the hole
is sealed.
Where Does Decay Come From?
Decay occurs when your teeth are frequently exposed to foods and drinks
that are high in starch, acid, and sugar—ingredients that feed
or enhance the growth of decay-causing bacteria in your mouth. (Refined
carbohydrates like crackers, white bread, and cereals act just like
sugars and pose the same problem for your teeth.)
Some Obvious Warning
Signals of Decay
- Discoloration—Decay sometimes shows up as a brown stain
- Occasional sharp pain
-
Throbbing pain that won’t go away
- Sensitivity to sweets or to hot and cold foods and drinks
- A hole in the tooth
- A broken filling
- A cracked tooth
Detecting
Decay
When it comes to decay, most signs and symptoms are so subtle only a
trained dental professional can detect them. In many cases, decay cannot
be detected by the naked eye. It takes technical help from an x-ray,
digital image, intra-oral camera, or a special magnified eyewear (worn
today by most technically up-to-date dentists) in order to ferret out
decay. The benefits of early detection are many, including smaller restorations,
lower dental costs, and the preservation of a larger number of your natural
teeth.
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