Dental Caries

Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, is a bacterial infection that causes demineralization of tooth enamel, leading to damage and cavities.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Bacteria: Dental caries is caused by the presence of bacteria in the mouth, particularly Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.
• Diet: Frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks can contribute to the development of dental caries.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria on teeth, increasing the risk of dental caries.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to dental caries due to genetic factors, such as enamel structure and composition.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to fluoride, either through community water fluoridation or topical applications, can help prevent dental caries.

Symptoms

• Tooth sensitivity: Pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
• Visible cavities: Holes or pits on the surface of teeth.
• Tooth discoloration: White or brown spots on teeth.
• Pain: Sharp pain when biting or chewing.

Diagnosis

Dental caries can be diagnosed through:

• Visual examination: A dentist will examine the teeth for visible signs of decay.
• X-rays: Radiographs can help detect cavities between teeth and under fillings.
• Probing: A dentist may use a probe to check for soft spots on the surface of teeth.

Treatment

Treatment options for dental caries depend on the severity of the condition:

• Fluoride treatments: Topical applications of fluoride can help reverse early stages of tooth decay.
• Fillings: Removing decayed tooth material and filling the cavity with a restorative material, such as amalgam or composite resin.
• Crowns: Covering the entire tooth with a crown to protect it from further damage.
• Root canals: Removing infected pulp tissue and filling the root canal to prevent further infection.
• Extractions: In severe cases, removing the affected tooth may be necessary.

Prevention

To prevent dental caries:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria from between teeth.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
• Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash as recommended by a dentist.

Complications

If left untreated, dental caries can lead to:

• Pain and discomfort.
• Infection: Bacteria can spread to surrounding tissues, leading to abscesses or cellulitis.
• Tooth loss: Untreated cavities can progress to the point where the tooth is no longer salvageable.