A combination of bacteria and food causes tooth decay and cavities. It occurs when your teeth are frequently exposed to foods containing carbohydrates such as starches and sugars like soda pop, candy, cake and even sticky fruits. It damages your teeth and leads to filling or even removal. If not taken proper care, the tooth enamel may break down forming a hole or cavity into the dentin. Nerve damage can also result from severe decay. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthier state.

Causes of Tooth Decay

A number of micro-organisms, such as bacteria, are present in our mouth. Enzymes produced by these bacteria convert all foods - especially sugar and starch - into acids. Bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine in the mouth to form a sticky substance called plaque that gets stuck in between the teeth, and if not removed, becomes a hard substance called tartar and irritates the gums. The acids in plaque can dissolve the enamel surface of the tooth and create holes in the tooth (cavities).

Cavities are usually painless until they grow very large inside the internal structures of the tooth and can cause death of the nerve and blood vessels in the tooth, leading to the formation of abscess. Untreated tooth decay can result in death of the internal structures of the tooth with eventual loss of the tooth.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Tooth pain, including sensitivity to cold food and drinks, bad breath, black or brown spots on teeth, and broken teeth can all be symptoms of tooth decay.

Preventing Tooth Decay

• Prescription mouthwashes can help prevent decay.
• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdentally cleaner.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and limit in-between meal snacks. Especially starchy or surgary foods.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
• Reduce frequent consumption of sugars.
• Reduce the number of times each day that you eat fermentable carbohydrates or drink sugary drinks.

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