Tooth decay is the destruction of the enamel (outer surface) of a tooth. Tooth decay is also known as dental cavities or dental caries. Decay is caused by bacteria that collect on tooth enamel. The bacteria live in a sticky, white film called plaque (pronounced PLAK). Bacteria obtain their food from sugar and starch in a person's diet. When they eat those foods, the bacteria create an acid that attacks tooth enamel and causes decay. The acids that cause tooth demineralization (cavity formation) are produced by specific types of bacteria (mutans streptococci and lactobacilli) that live in dental plaque. These bacteria are living organisms just like we are. When we consume foods and beverages, we create waste products. Bacteria do the same thing. The bacteria that cause tooth decay utilize sugars (glucose, sucrose, fructose, lactose, or cooked starches) as their food source. The waste products created from digesting these sugars are the acids (especially lactic acid) that cause the demineralization of tooth enamel and dentin. Since the bacteria that live in our mouth eat when we do, as we ingest foods which contain sugars (such as soda, candy, milk, and even fruits and vegetables) these bacteria get a meal too. And within minutes they start producing the acids that cause tooth decay. Bacteria that are exposed to sugars or carbohydrates can make acid, which attacks the crystal-like substance in the tooth's outer surface. This process is known as demineralization. The first sign of this is a chalky white spot. Acid formation, and hence tooth demineralization, begins within minutes of the bacteria receiving a sugary meal. It can take up to several hours for saliva to penetrate the layer of dental plaque and neutralize these acids. At this stage, the decay process can be reversed. Using fluorides at home and in the dental office can help the tooth repair itself. If not treated appropriately the demineralization continues. Enamel starts to break down. Once the enamel surface is broken, the tooth can no longer repair itself. The cavity has to be cleaned and restored by a dentist. If decay is left untreated, it will reach the tooth's pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp becomes infected. An abscess (swelling) or a fistula (opening to the surface of the gum) can form in the soft tissues. Cavity prevention suggestion: Brush and floss after every meal or snack. Take the time to be thorough with your brushing and flossing. Those places that you don't clean effectively are precisely the locations where cavities will be most likely to form. Factor in the formation of tooth decay. Tooth decay is a common problem and proper brushing and flossing and regular dental check up is the best way to prevent this from happening in the first place. Ask from medical experts at http://www.simplanswer.com about how to stop tooth decay in men and women.
If you have ever experienced toothache, you'll know how great its impact is on your functionality for the day. The affected area may be small but the pain felt in that specific part of your mouth renders you incapable of finishing whatever task is at hand. Here are the top 5 causes of tooth decay that might just be why you're suffering now.
"Poor dental care "Sugar and Starch diet "Fluoride deficiency "Smoking "Drinking alcohol
Dental health or dental care
Simply refers to good hygiene, which points to brushing the teeth regularly and flossing. It is recommended to do these twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Although, it would be best to brush after every meal or whenever you eat sweets - but that is not very practical.
Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in the mouth produce the lactic acids that cause damage on the enamel part of the teeth. This acid drills through thus, causing the holes or cavities in the teeth.
Brushing the teeth regularly will help control the plaque that builds up around the teeth. This plaque can be considered as the breeding ground for bacteria, and a storage facility for more concentrated acids that can stay for hours. Lesser plaque means fewer bacteria that produce the acids, so lesser chances of tooth decay.
These dental activities can help maintain the cleanliness of the mouth and control the growth of bacteria on the surface, between the teeth, and on the gums. However, it is also best to visit the dentist regularly so he can scrape off the plaques that cannot be removed by simple brushing.
Poor diet that is full of starch and sugar
The bacteria inside the mouth have a fanfare and feast whenever the host eats or drinks sweets. As the host feeds, so do the bacteria in his mouth. After around 20 minutes, the bacteria will transform the sugar into waste in the form of lactic acid. Starch is of similar appeal to them since starch, when broken down inside the mouth becomes sugar too.
Deficiency of fluoride for added protection
Fluoride is a substance that really helps fight and prevent tooth decay. It strengthens the enamel on the teeth and makes them stronger against the acids. The water we drink should have fluoride, as wells as the toothpaste we use. There are other ways to obtain fluoride so ask your dentist about them.
Cigarette smoking is dangerous to health, dangerous to teeth
Everyone is well aware of the danger in smoking cigarettes. Aside from the really big health issues that surround smoking, this careless habit can also cause tooth decay. The smokeless or spit tobacco is more potent. If you also are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke then you are prone to cavities.
Drinking alcohol could also cause dental caries
Dental caries is another name for cavities, which is the result tooth decay. Drinking alcoholic beverage, like smoking, are two habits people should start to take out of their systems are they are both really not good for the body.
Both Vinay Gupta & Robert Melkonyan are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Vinay Gupta has sinced written about articles on various topics from Strep Throat, Nutrition and Wellness. Vinay Gupta is an experienced writer who is writing for and. Vinay Gupta's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.
Robert Melkonyan has sinced written about articles on various topics from Teeth Whitening, Recreation and Sports and Debts Loans. Cosmeticdentistryguide.co.uk is an excellent source for information regarding the treatment of and how to prevent. Robert Melkonyan's top article generates over 450000 views. to your Favourites.