Everything You Need to Know About Dental Caries and How a Dentist Can Help

Posted on: 28 September 2022

Many people know it is good to care for their mouths to avoid developing dental complications. However, few have the discipline it takes to keep teeth white and healthy. One of the most common dental health complications is the development of holes in the teeth. Most people call the condition cavities, but the medical term is dental caries. The condition does not develop overnight but results from months or years of poor dental hygiene. Here are some things you should know about dental caries. 

Sugar Is the Greatest Cause

Understanding how cavities develop can help you avoid the problem altogether. The complication starts with a person eating foods high in sugar and starch and exercising poor dental hygiene. Most sugar or starch remains in the teeth and invites plaque bacteria. The bacteria cause fermentation and the acid slowly eats away at the tooth enamel. Over the months, the tooth gets eroded, exposing the inner layers. If the hole in the tooth gets to the pulp cavity, you might start experiencing pain as the bacteria causes tissue decay. 

It Is Possible to Prevent Caries

Your dietary choices and dental hygiene practices can be instrumental in preventing dental caries. You need to start by reducing the amount of sugar you eat. For example, you can replace sugary drinks with something healthy, like water. You can also reduce your consumption of sweets, cakes and other high-starch foods. Most importantly, brush your teeth after having these meals. Brushing in the evening eliminates all the bacterial action that might have occurred during the day and improves saliva circulation in the mouth. It minimises the chances of tooth corrosion. 

The Condition Is Treatable

Dentists have interventions for every stage of dental caries. Visit a dentist as soon as you have developed the condition. The earlier they diagnose cavities, the higher the chances they will be able to save your tooth. For example, they will recommend better dental hygiene and fluoride supplements when the damage is only surface level but you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. If the damage has reached the dentine, they might recommend fillers. However, they must perform a root canal procedure if you have a damaged pulp cavity. 

Consult with your dentist about the possibility that you have developed dental caries. With their help and guidance, you can minimise the damage. For more information about oral care and dental hygiene, contact a local dentist.

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