What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay also known as dentalcaries or cavities is a common disease which affects a large percentage of theworld population. It is widespread and generally occurs due to poor oralhabits.
Tooth decay is the demineralization of tooth by the acid releasing bacteria.These acids cause the tooth to decay. The decay begins on the outer surface ofthe tooth and progresses to deeper layers.

Causes of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is not a suddenlyoccurring event. It occurs due to a constantly acting cause such as poor oralhabits. Poor oral hygiene causes formation of plaque which is responsible forinitiating caries formation. The organisms responsible for causing tooth decayare Streptococcus Mutans and Lactobacillus.

These bacteria release acidswhich initiates the decay of the teeth. The leading cause of caries is poororal hygiene. Not brushing often and improper brushing leads to poor oralhygiene. Not rinsing after meals, excessive intake of starch and sugary diet,smoking also contributes to tooth decay.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Initially, there are nosymptoms of tooth decay till it has progressed extensively. A white chalky spotmay appear on the tooth which indicates dissolution of the outer layer of toothwhich is the enamel. The white chalky spot appears in only few cases and not inall.

As the tooth decayprogresses, this white chalky spot turns brown due to further decay. The demineralizationcauses the area to become soft. The decay progresses in to deeper layers. Whenthe decay has progressed in to deeper layers where nerves are present, itcauses pain and sensitivity.

Prevention of Tooth Decay

The best way to preventdental caries is by following a proper oral care routine. This will ensure goodoral hygiene which best keeps dental caries at bay.

You don't have to tryanything fancy to maintain a good oral hygiene. Just sticking to the basics oforal hygiene would do such as brushing your teeth two times a day. Flossingyour teeth at least once every alternate day. Regular dental check ups by thedentist at least once in three months.

When the patient is at riskof developing tooth decay, the dentist can take certain measures to protect thepatient such as:

-Topical Fluoride: Applying Fluoride in the form of StannousFluoride   on the tooth surface whichprevents caries. This occurs due to the strengthening of the enamel byformation of fluoropatite.

-Fissure Sealants (Dental Sealants): These are applied on chewing surfaces of the molars(which are at high risk of developing caries).This prevents Plaque formation.This is especially done in children

Treatment of Tooth Decay

It is essential to identifywhether specific habits are causing dental decay. These can be checked toprevent future occurrences of tooth decay.

Fillings: The tooth structure whichhas decayed cannot be recovered and must be replaced by a restorative material.This treatment is called Filling or restoration. The decayed part of the toothis removed and filled by a suitable restorative material such as amalgam orcomposite.

Root Canal Treatment (RCT): If tooth decay has progressed to the nerves, an RCTis suggested. The entire pulp is removed and filled with inert material andsealed. A cap is also applied in most cases.