DENTAL CARRIES (TOOH DECAY), CAUSES, EFFECTS , PREVENTION AND TREATMENTS

 Dental caries are usually known as tooth decay and it occurs when bacteria destroy the outer part of the tooth or enamel.

CAUSES OF TOOTH DECAY

• Drinking water with high fluoride concentration.
• Plaque is formed when food remains in the mouth combined with bacteria and saliva.

Bacteria in plaque convert food remains especially sugar and starch into lactic acid which dissolves the enamel forming a cavity or hole.

If the hole is not treated reaches the pulp cavity and the nerve ends inside the tooth causing an infection and serious pain.

The oral cavity is home to numerous types of bacteria, including Streptococcus mutants and Lactobacillus, which thrive on sugars and starches from the foods we eat.

When these bacteria consume sugars, they produce acid as a byproduct, leading to a drop in the pH level of the oral environment. This acidic environment gradually demineralizes the tooth's protective outer layer, the enamel, making it susceptible to decay.

TRANSMISSION OF DENTAL CARRIES

Sharing eating utensils, kissing, or even blowing on hot food before feeding a child can potentially transfer harmful oral bacteria.

SYMPTOMS AND EFFECTS OF DENTAL CARRIES

• Development of holes or cavities in the teeth.

• Gums bleeding especially during teeth brushing.

• Tooth Pain: As the decay progresses, the tooth's inner layers become exposed, leading to sensitivity and pain, especially when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.

• Tooth Abscess: Severe decay can reach the tooth's pulp, causing infection and leading to the formation of an abscess, a painful pus-filled swelling.

• Tooth Loss: In advanced stages, untreated dental caries can cause irreparable damage to the tooth, leading to its loss.

• Impact on Overall Health: Poor oral health, including untreated dental caries, has been linked to systemic health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF DENTAL CARIES

• Brushing: Brush teeth regularly with recommended toothpaste.

• Flossing: Use dental floss when necessary to remove the plaque between the teeth.

• Washy your mouth after taking sugary food like cakes, chocolates, and biscuits.

• Minimize intake of sugary foods, this helps to limit the amount of acid produced by bacteria.

• Avoid taking very hot or very cold drinks or foods.

• Visit dental clinics regularly for dental check-ups.

• Fluoride: Fluoride, either through toothpaste, mouthwash, or professionally applied treatments, strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay.

• Balanced Diet: Reducing the consumption of sugary and starchy foods can minimize the production of acid by oral bacteria.

TREATMENTS OF DENTAL CARRIES

Dental Fillings

Dentists can remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the cavity with materials like amalgam or composite resin.

Crowns

For more extensive decay, a dental crown may be necessary to restore the tooth's function and appearance.

Root Canal Treatment

If the decay reaches the tooth's pulp, a root canal procedure may be required to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

Tooth Extraction

In severe cases where the tooth is beyond repair, it may need to be extracted to prevent further complications.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride medicines, frequently given during routine dental check-ups, can be a successful preventive measure against dental caries. Dental specialists apply fluoride straightforwardly to the teeth, which helps remineralize the finish and makes it more impervious to corrosive assaults by microorganisms. Fluoride medicines are particularly valuable for youngsters as their creating teeth are more helpless against rot.

Sealants

Dental sealants are another preventive option, particularly for children and teenagers. A sealant is a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. 

It acts as a barrier, sealing the deep grooves and fissures where food particles and bacteria tend to accumulate. By preventing bacterial access to these vulnerable areas, sealants help reduce the risk of developing cavities.

Oral Health Education

Dental professionals can educate individuals about the importance of brushing and flossing correctly, maintaining a balanced diet, and the significance of regular dental check-ups. Educating parents about early childhood oral care and appropriate bottle-feeding practices can also contribute to preventing caries in children.

Fluoridated Water

Community water fluoridation is considered one of the most significant public health achievements in preventing dental caries. Fluoride is added to public water supplies at optimal levels to benefit everyone in the community. Consuming fluoridated water helps strengthen teeth and reduce the risk of cavities, particularly in areas with limited access to dental care.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle choices can impact oral health. Avoiding tobacco products, which are harmful to oral tissues, and limiting alcohol consumption can contribute to better overall oral health. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet with limited sugary and acidic foods can help prevent dental caries.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Ordinary dental check-ups assume a significant part in the early recognition and treatment of dental caries. Dental specialists can recognize early indications of rot, survey risk factors, and give proper preventive measures. Routine cleanings assist with eliminating plaque and tartar development, lessening the possibility of creating pits.