Dental Cavity- All You Need To Know |
Posted: January 27, 2021 |
“Oral care is one of the most important parts of our life. We all know that it is necessary for a healthy smile. But there is more to it. It is actually connected with many other health conditions including heart diseases & high BP. You can actually prevent many other diseases by maintaining a proper oral health care routine.” Says Dr. Pradeep who is working with one of the best ENT hospital in Vishakhapatnam.
What is a cavity?“Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure as a result of acid produced by certain plaque bacteria such as s mutants. This acid is a metabolic byproduct of bacteria when they digest sugars in the mouth. When the acid is in contact with the tooth for a long enough time it begins by decalcifying the enamel. Enamel is a crystalline structure and is quite resilient to decay as it is the hardest part of human body especially when fluoride is incorporated with it.” Says dentists from Pulp Dental Hospital which is one of the best dental clinic in Nungambakkam, Chennai.
However, once the enamel layer becomes sufficiently decalcified by acids and is breached by harmful bacteria the decay spreads more rapidly within the dentin layer. The dentin softens and the overlying enamel can eventually collapse forming a hole in the tooth known commonly as a cavity. As decay progresses deeper in the dentin layer it will approach the tooth pulp chamber which houses soft tissue containing tiny blood vessels and nerve tissue. Inflammation of the pulp tissue which is also known as pulpitis can result in severe pain and/or hypersensitivity. When bacteria infiltrate the pulp tissue and colonize it, the pulp tissue begins to undergo necrosis. Eventually, a dental abscess will occur which can lead to significant swelling and pain.
How is dental decay treated?During earlier phases of dental decay it can be treated by removing the decalcified enamel and infected dentin. This is usually done by general dentists using a simple dental drill and various burrs. After the decay is removed the tooth is restored with one of several different dental restorative materials such as resin composites also known as white fillings. When the decay is more developed and progresses deeper within the tooth and the tooth becomes symptomatic a filling may still be successful if the pulp inflammation or pulpitis is reversible. After the filling, the symptoms should subside. However, in many cases, a filling may not be sufficient. For example, when the symptoms are too severe or the symptoms do not subside after a deep feeling is performed or there is a dental abscess present. This is when root canal treatment may be recommended. The tooth may also be extracted in some cases in order to stop the spread of the cavity.
How is dental decay detected?Dental decay is diagnosed by a dentist using three different methods. Number one is visually seeing and recognizing obvious signs of decay. Number two bitewing or other dental radiographs. Number three tactile where your dentist will be using a dental explorer to feel the softening of tooth structure. It is highly recommended that you see your dentist on a regular basis for routine checkups so that dental decay can be diagnosed early and treated successfully with conservative fillings if necessary. On the other hand, there are more invasive and more costly procedures like root canal treatment or extractions.
How do you prevent dental decay?There are several ways to prevent dental decay. Here are the top three- Healthy diet- Eliminate or lower refined sugars and carbonated drinks like soda pop and energy drinks. Dental homecare- Brush and floss twice daily and use an electric toothbrush. Professional dental care- Routine dental examinations and dental hygiene.
Dental care guide-There is a basic dental care routine that you can follow to ensure a healthy smile on your face.
•Make sure that you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day after your meal. Use a soft bristle brush & rotating motion to clean your teeth. Try to clean the hard to reach areas first. •Use a fluoride-rich toothpaste as it will ensure good care for the enamel & will also prevent any type of cavity or decay. •Use a mouthwash to remove bacterias from your teeth as they might build plaque in the gum line & cause periodontitis. •Use a floss every day to clean in between the teeth. It will remove the remaining food particles from the teeth & will ensure oral health. •Do not use a hard bristle or do not put heavy pressure as this might damage the enamel. Also do not brush immediately after eating as acidic food softens the enamel & causes decay. Do not brush more than twice as this is also harmful to your teeth. •Eat healthy & vitamin-rich foods. You must fulfill the requirement of vitamins & minerals of your body to ensure good dental health.
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