The familiar twinge, that subtle pit, tooth decay affects smiles worldwide, but it is not a single issue. Many types of cavities target different parts of the tooth. The first step in prevention is to know the differences. If you ignore initial signs, they can cause more pain and cost you more, and you could even lose the tooth. The information below should help you better understand cavities.
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a destructive breakdown of your teeth. It occurs due to microorganisms within the mouth that destroy the composition of your teeth. Think of your teeth as a fort and your enamel as the strong wall guarding them against external threats. This protective coating is constantly attacked by a sticky bacterial coating called plaque. This biofilm accumulates over time on teeth and survives by feeding on sugars from foods and drinks. When these organisms consume sweet stuff, they produce corrosive liquid. This acid begins demineralization, where enamel loses calcium and other minerals. This weakens teeth, which might show up as dull white spots.
If this attack continues without treatment or a proper remedy, the acid will impact the dentin, the softer material found just under the enamel layer. Ultimately, this will form hollows known as cavities that can weaken the tooth and lead to pain and treatment.
The inside of your mouth has its defenses to protect against harmful substances. The constant tussle between decay and protection relies on remineralization. This is done naturally, with your saliva and fluoride playing essential roles in returning lost minerals to the enamel and fortifying the tooth against decay. Unfortunately, this delicate balance can easily tip in favor of destruction due to repeated exposure to sweet substances or not having a good dental care routine. This will allow bacteria to multiply and excrete more acid.
Various elements play a role in the emergence of cavities. The reasons include:
- Diets high in sugar
- Poor cleaning of the teeth with a toothbrush and dental floss to remove plaque
- Limited contact with fluoride, which helps with remineralization
- Dry mouth, which reduces the protective qualities of saliva, making the teeth more prone to acid attack
A well-maintained mouth and a well-balanced diet can prevent it from happening. Regular visits to a dentist can also help detect and treat tooth decay early.
Types of decay
Not all tooth decay is the same. The type of decay and the way it spreads depend on where it is in the mouth and the specific vulnerabilities of each tooth surface. Cavity location and cause are not the same. They develop through a different process.
There are four main types of decay, namely:
-
Smooth Surface Decay
Decay on even dental surfaces targets the relatively flat, exposed parts of teeth and includes the sides and the spaces between teeth, also known as interproximal caries. The rougher surfaces of teeth trap food and make it more likely to decay. These ironed-out surfaces do not trap food as much and therefore decay as fast.
Often, the first sign is a dull white spot on the enamel, showing that minerals have started dissolving. This is due to acidic substances that bacteria in the mouth make. If not treated quickly or habits do not change, these stains can become browner and darker, ultimately creating a hole.
A cavity between teeth occurs in the narrow spaces that are typically not reached through standard tooth cleaning with a brush and normally needs radiographs for identification by a dentist. The destruction of smooth surfaces can be reversed by adding minerals due to fluoride from toothpaste, mouthwashes, or professional application in the dental office.
It is imperative to constantly disturb the growth of a bacterial film (plaque) by brushing your teeth with a fluoride dentifrice at least twice daily and using dental floss daily. Using the correct technique for flossing is crucial to remove the bacterial film from that narrow space between the teeth, the interproximal area, which is not reachable by a toothbrush.
When you ignore these areas, especially when you eat food easy enough for these bacteria to metabolize, substances toxic to enamel increase the corrosion process.
Consuming water that also contains fluoride can help. It will fortify teeth and help make them more resistant to acids. Regularly seeing a dentist for checkups will help detect these damages in their early stages before they worsen. Furthermore, consistently flossing and using products containing fluoride can stop damage to flat surfaces at an early stage. This helps keep teeth intact.
-
Pit and Fissure Decay
Compared to smooth surfaces, the decay of pits and fissures develops in the tiny grooves and crevices on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. The grooves trap food and bacteria. This makes them the most likely to allow plaque accumulation due to difficulty in brushing.
Decay can happen quickly here, burrowing through the enamel and into the dentin underneath, resulting in deep holes that often require a filling or similar treatment. The environment is mixed up with bacteria, which produce a lot of acid.
To prevent this, thoroughly clean your mouth after consuming sweets and gum. Using fluoride toothpaste while brushing on the chewing surfaces helps. However, dental sealants offer a significant advantage. These thin, protective resin layers are applied to the grooves.
They harden to create a smooth barrier against food and bacteria. Having dental sealants is a quick and painless process that significantly reduces the risk of cavities. Children usually benefit the most. Adults with deep grooves or decayed teeth should also consider this treatment option.
Moreover, do not forget about regular professional dental cleanings and routine checkups. They are essential for early detection and prevention. Tooth decay in pits and fissures often occurs much quicker than on smooth surfaces.
-
Root Decay
The destruction of the tooth foundation targets the area revealed by the withdrawal of the gingiva, or gum recession. Gum recession happens over the years because of periodontal disease or excessively forceful brushing. Unlike enamel, the tooth's crown covering, the root is covered by cementum. This calcified tissue is softer and less acid-resistant than enamel, which is much less resistant to the action of acids and breaks down very rapidly.
This specific damage is notably common among older people and those with insufficient moisture in the mouth. When there is less saliva, the surface of the root teeth becomes weaker and prone to damage.
Gum recession could occur due to inflamed gums or forceful brushing techniques. After the root’s covering is stripped, it is subjected to the same bacterial acids that attack the enamel. However, because the cementum is less dense, it erodes more quickly. Dealing with the problem can be complicated, often requiring extensive restorations deep inside the tooth or the placement of a protective cap. If decay is close to the nerve, it can cause a lot of pain.
Try to avoid anything that could affect these exposed root surfaces. Use mild cleaning methods on these areas, like a soft toothbrush. Cleaning between the teeth along the gum margin with dental floss will also help you. Seek early treatment for any gum disease.
Fluoride mouth rinse can give extra protection. Fluoride toothpaste or fluoride gel available on prescription can help strengthen the cementum. Retaining moisture in the mouth by chewing sugarless gum, drinking plenty of fluids, or using artificial saliva will help lessen the occurrence of this type of deterioration. Seniors must see their dental care provider regularly to catch any problems on time. Your dentist could recommend fluoride application at the office or desensitizing products. Decay of root surfaces can occur quickly and dangerously, so it is important to be in the habit of being more observant.
-
Recurrent Decay
Teeth deterioration that comes back, also known as secondary decay, happens near present dental repairs like fillings or caps. It often uses small openings or areas, called microleakage, which can occur at the interface between the repair and the dental element after a while due to:
- Wear and tear
- Incorrect placement of the dentist, or
- Rupture of the materials used
Bacteria can easily gather within these little gaps and produce a harmful liquid that damages the surrounding tooth material. This starts to damage the tooth in an area that has been fixed before. Most likely, the lack of proper hygiene of the person and the use of sweet foods, which feed the bacteria, prevent repair.
It can be hard to spot oral decay that keeps coming back. It usually does not hurt initially and has some faint visual signs that a less-trained eye can easily miss. Dental experts rely on imaging techniques like X-rays to help see beneath the surfaces of teeth to detect decay. Moreover, expert clinical evaluation is important.
It can be hard to recognize deterioration that reoccurs. These failings often cause little or no discomfort at first. They yield faint visible signs that would be tough for the untrained eye to notice. Dental experts rely on radiographs that help detect decay below the surface and thorough clinical evaluations for early detection. This shows the importance of standard checkups for detecting these issues early on.
Though using quality dental procedures that reduce microleakage during the first restoration is necessary, prevention is also important. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride dentifrice, pay special attention to the margins of restorations, where plaque accumulates, and carefully use dental floss to remove the bacterial film from these vulnerable areas.
Choosing a reputable and skilled professional for your dental restorations can help reduce the chances of problems caused by poorly placed or failing fillings and crowns in the future. The often-hidden feature of reappearing decay connects with the broader issue of individual predisposed conditions and the necessity of professional and personal responsibility in oral health care.
Who is Most at Risk of Tooth Decay?
A person's risk of tooth decay can increase for many reasons. These are the people most likely to suffer from tooth decay:
- Children and teens are more prone to tooth enamel degeneration due to attacks by acid since their enamel is still developing. They also may not brush and floss regularly.
- As a person ages, their gums could recede, and the softer cementum of the tooth roots can become exposed, making them prone to decay. They may also have a dry mouth because of their prescriptions or health issues.
- People with poor oral hygiene are more at risk of tooth decay. If not brushed or cleaned regularly, plaque builds up on the teeth. The acids that are produced can erode the enamel.
- People whose diet mainly consists of sugar-filled drinks and food. Consuming sugar regularly allows bacteria in the mouth to create acid, which causes decay. Acidic foods and beverages can directly erode enamel.
- People with dry mouth, or xerostomia, suffer from salivary glands not producing enough saliva. Reduced saliva production increases the risk of decay. Medications can also cause dry mouth, medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, and radiation therapy to the head and neck.
- People with periodontal or gum disease will have their tooth's root and other surfaces exposed to bacteria and acid due to gum recession associated with gum disease.
- People with dental work are at risk because decay can happen along the edges of dental work, especially if there are gaps or microleakage.
- People with certain medical conditions, for example, those who have eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia), acid reflux (GERD), and diabetes, may be at risk for tooth decay.
- People with no access to fluoride. Fluoride strengthens the enamel. It also helps in remineralization. Not having toothpaste with fluoride or water rich in fluoride can increase the risk of tooth decay.
- People with special needs, specifically, individuals with disabilities, may lack proper oral hygiene.
Although those who fall into the above-mentioned categories are at higher risk of tooth decay, anyone can fall victim.
Your Best Defense Against Tooth Decay
Keeping tooth decay at bay requires excellent at-home oral care, dietary choices, and regular professional care. These strategies focus on the bacteria, their acid, and their targets. Let us look at each in detail:
-
Learn To Perform At-Home Oral Hygiene
To keep your mouth healthy, brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. With the bristles of your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and teeth, use gentle circular motions to clean all surfaces. Always clean the chewing surfaces and the area between the teeth and gums for a long enough time.
Make flossing a part of your everyday oral care routine, as it helps to remove the bacteria from the tight spaces between your teeth. Always use the proper technique. When cleaning your teeth, consider the area around your dental crowns. Your dentist may also recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash for extra protection.
Using any toothbrush properly is still more important, although electric toothbrushes may help to enhance the removal of the bacterial deposits. The fluoride in your toothpaste helps strengthen enamel and even helps with remineralization naturally. This dental care routine should be done routinely to prevent oral bacteria from producing damaging acid and promote oral health.
-
Make Good Dietary Choices
Try to eat less sugar and starches to slow bacteria and acid attacks. Eating or drinking something sugary too often increases these attacks. Acidic foods and drinks also soften enamel. The frequency of exposure matters.
Eat calcium-rich food and crunchy fruits and vegetables to boost saliva. Include calcium-rich foods and crunchy fruits or veggies to boost saliva. Rinse with water after consuming sugary or acidic items.
-
Partner With Your Dentist
Going to your dentist every 6 months will help spot the signs through X-rays and visual exams. Regular care catches issues early.
Signs of Tooth Decay
You should watch for:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet foods and drinks
- The appearance of light or dark markings on your teeth
- Discomfort when biting down or chewing
- Having bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Spots or holes that are darker than the rest of the teeth
Do not wait until you have severe pain or discomfort before seeking help. It is important. You should see a dentist immediately if you notice any ongoing symptoms, particularly increased sensitivity to hot and cold or pressure, or any level of mouth pain that continues. Quick action at the first sign of trouble is important to save your smile and ensure long-term oral health.
Find a Dentist Near Me
Learning the differences between the types of tooth decay can help you take steps to defend your smile. When you understand how each one develops, you can act to prevent it. Proactive steps can guarantee you a lifetime of oral wellness. Do not wait to experience pain to contact a dentist. Make it a habit to see them every six months.
Contact Tarzana Dental Care today to schedule your comprehensive examination and discuss personalized preventative care. Our exceptional team is here to support you and ensure your smile and oral health are good for years. Contact us at 818-708-3232 for further assistance.