Learn how to Identify, prevent and treat Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common problem that affects people of all ages. It is caused by bacteria that feed on sugar in the mouth and produce acid. This acid can dissolve the enamel on the teeth, creating cavities. Tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is a progressive disease that begins with the formation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth. If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is a difficult-to-remove deposit that can only be removed by a dentist.

Once tartar has formed, it can trap bacteria and food particles, producing acid. This acid can dissolve the enamel on the teeth, creating cavities. Cavities are small holes in the teeth that can cause pain and sensitivity. If left untreated, cavities can grow larger and eventually lead to tooth loss.

How to identify tooth decay:

Identifying tooth decay in its early stages is crucial for preventing further damage to your teeth and overall oral health. Here are some signs and symptoms of tooth decay that you should look out for:

Visible holes or pits in your teeth: As tooth decay progresses, it can create visible holes or pits in the affected teeth. These cavities may initially appear as small white or brown spots, but they can grow larger and darker as the decay worsens.
Toothache or sensitivity: Tooth decay can cause pain or discomfort, especially when you eat or drink hot, cold, or sweet foods or beverages. This sensitivity is a result of the exposed dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, which is more sensitive to temperature changes.
Dark stains on your teeth: Dark brown or black stains on your teeth can also indicate tooth decay. These stains are caused by the buildup of decay-causing bacteria and food particles.
Bad breath: Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth can be a sign of tooth decay. The bacteria that cause decay produce sulphurous compounds that contribute to unpleasant breath odour.
Pain when biting: If you experience pain when you bite down, it could be a sign of tooth decay or other dental problems, such as gum disease or a cracked tooth.
Swollen or bleeding gums: Swollen, red, or bleeding gums can also indicate tooth decay or gum disease. These symptoms are caused by inflammation and irritation of the gums due to plaque buildup and bacterial infection.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms of tooth decay, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of tooth decay can help prevent further damage to your teeth and preserve your oral health. Emergency Dentist Sydney works around the clock to provide out-of-hours emergency dental care.

How serious is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is a serious problem that can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. Here are some of the consequences of tooth decay:

Pain and sensitivity: Cavities can cause pain and sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or beverages.
Infection: If left untreated, cavities can become infected. This can lead to an abscess, which is a painful collection of pus that can spread to the jawbone or other parts of the face.
Tooth loss: If cavities are not treated, they can grow larger and eventually lead to tooth loss. This can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile.
Low self-esteem: Tooth decay can also affect a person's self-esteem. People with missing or damaged teeth may feel embarrassed to smile or speak in public.

How to prevent tooth decay

Tooth decay is a preventable disease. Here are 8 top tips which can help to prevent tooth decay, including:

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel on the teeth and makes them more resistant to decay.
Floss once a day: Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, where they can cause decay.
Eat a healthy diet: Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings: Your dentist can check for cavities and other dental problems and provide preventive care.
Drink plenty of water: Water helps rinse plaque and food particles from the teeth.
Use a mouthwash: Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria in the mouth and reduce plaque buildup.
Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can help to increase saliva production, which helps to wash away plaque and food particles.
Avoid smoking: Smoking can damage the enamel on the teeth and make them more susceptible to decay.

Protect your teeth

By following these tips, you can help prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

If you have noticed any of the signs of tooth decay, or if you have any questions at all then feel free to give Emergency Dentist Sydney a call or book a consultation.