How to treat tooth decay

1. What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental diseases that can occur at any age. It is a condition in which the enamel and dentin of the teeth are destroyed by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. When we eat foods containing sugar and starch, bacteria in the mouth convert these substances into acids. This acid attacks and erodes the enamel, creating small holes in the tooth surface. If not treated promptly, tooth decay can spread and deepen, causing pain and possibly leading to tooth loss.

2. Causes of tooth decay

There are many factors that contribute to tooth decay:

– Poor oral hygiene: Improper or infrequent brushing is the main cause of tooth decay. When teeth are not cleaned properly, plaque and bacteria will accumulate on the teeth, creating conditions for tooth decay to develop.

– Diet high in sugar and starch: Foods rich in sugar and starch are “food” for bacteria in the mouth. When consuming a lot of these foods, the risk of tooth decay will increase.

– Fluoride deficiency: Fluoride is an important mineral that helps protect tooth enamel from the effects of acid. Fluoride deficiency can increase the risk of tooth decay.

– Dry mouth: Saliva plays an important role in washing away food and neutralizing acids in the mouth. When your mouth is dry, the risk of tooth decay increases.

– Genetics: Some people have a tooth structure that is more susceptible to cavities due to genetic factors.

– Age: Older people are at higher risk of tooth decay due to receding gums, exposing vulnerable tooth roots.

3. Signs of tooth decay

Early detection of tooth decay signs will help you get timely treatment and avoid serious complications. Here are some common signs:

– Toothache: A sharp pain when eating sweet, hot or cold foods is a common sign of tooth decay.

– White or brown spots appear on teeth: This is an early sign of tooth decay, when the enamel begins to be destroyed.

– Holes or pits in teeth: As tooth decay progresses, you may see or feel small holes in the surface of your teeth.

– Sensitivity when eating or drinking: Sensitivity when exposed to hot, cold or sour foods can be a sign of tooth decay.

– Bad breath: Tooth decay can cause bad breath due to bacteria that accumulate in the cavities.

– Pain when biting or chewing: If you feel pain when biting or chewing food, especially in a particular tooth, it could be a sign of deep tooth decay.

4. Home remedies for tooth decay

Although tooth decay treatment is best performed by a professional dentist, there are some home remedies that can help relieve pain and prevent the decay from spreading:

a. Gargle with salt water:

– Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water.
– Rinse your mouth with this solution for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
– Do 2-3 times a day to relieve pain and kill bacteria.

b. Using clove essential oil:

– Soak a cotton ball in a little clove essential oil.
– Place cotton on the painful tooth area.
– Hold for a few minutes to relieve pain and fight bacteria.

c. Using baking soda:

– Mix a little baking soda with water to form a paste.
– Apply the mixture to the painful tooth area.
– Leave for a few minutes then rinse mouth thoroughly with warm water.

Note that these methods only provide temporary pain relief and are not a substitute for professional dental treatment. If the cavity does not improve or becomes more severe, you should see your dentist immediately.

5. Dental treatment for tooth decay

When you visit the dentist, your dentist will examine your teeth and recommend appropriate treatment. Dental treatments for tooth decay include:

a. Dental fillings:

– Applicable for mild to moderate tooth decay.
– The dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill it with materials such as composite, amalgam or porcelain.
– The procedure is usually painless and can be completed in one visit.

b. Dental crown placement:

– Used for severe tooth decay or severely weakened teeth.
– The dentist will shape the tooth and place a crown (also called a dental cap) on top to protect it.
– Dental crowns can be made of metal, porcelain, or a combination of both.

c. Root canal treatment:

– Applied when tooth decay has spread to the pulp.
– The dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean the root canal and fill it.
– The tooth is then usually protected with a crown.

d. Tooth extraction:

– Is the last resort when the tooth is too damaged to be saved.
– After tooth extraction, you may consider alternative methods such as dental implants or bridges.

6. Prevent tooth decay

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some effective ways to prevent tooth decay:

a. Proper oral hygiene:

– Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for 2 minutes each time.
– Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste containing fluoride.
– Use dental floss or an interdental brush to clean between teeth.

b. Limit sugary foods and drinks:

– Reduce consumption of sweets, carbonated soft drinks and starchy foods.
– If you eat sweets, rinse your mouth immediately afterwards or brush your teeth after 30 minutes.

c. Use fluoride mouthwash:

– Rinse with fluoride mouthwash every day to enhance tooth protection.

d. Drink plenty of water:

– Drink water regularly to help wash away food and bacteria in your mouth.

e. Eat foods that are good for your teeth:

– Supplement foods rich in calcium and vitamin D such as milk, cheese, green vegetables.
– Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots to stimulate salivation.

f. Regular dental check-ups:

– Visit the dentist at least every 6 months for a check-up and thorough cleaning.

g. Use sugar-free gum:

– Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva production, helping to neutralize acid in the mouth.

h. Fluoride supplementation:

– Use fluoridated drinking water or take fluoride supplements as directed by your dentist.

7. Conclusion

Tooth decay is a common dental problem, but it is preventable and treatable. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist regularly are the keys to healthy teeth. If you suspect you have a cavity, don’t delay seeing your dentist. Early treatment can help prevent the condition from getting worse and protect your smile.

If you have any questions about how to treat tooth decay or other dental problems, do not hesitate to send your questions via the 'ASK A QUESTION' section on our website. Our experts will be happy to answer all your questions.

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