Tooth Decay
Dental caries, as known as tooth decay, is defined by the gradual decalcification of enamel. It occurs when bacteria grow on the surface of the teeth and form a colorless sticky film (germ film). If left untreated, the loss of minerals continues during erosion, damaging the tooth surface and creating a cavity.
Rate & Trend
More than 2 billion cases of dental caries in permanent teeth have been reported worldwide, with the average prevalence estimated to be 29%.
This rate has been maintained at a very high level, especially at the peak of when young adult period.
Cause
When sugars and starches are not cleaned off from your teeth, bacteria quickly spread in your mouth and form dental plaque (a white, corrosive film that covers your teeth). The stayed plague could be hardened after a long time and become dental calculus. The calculus would make removing plaque more difficult and protect the bacteria on your teeth. Further, the acids in plaque would remove the minerals of the strong and hard protection outside your teeth (enamel). This process of erasion leads to tiny holes on the teeth surfaces. When the out layer of the teeth is destroyed, the bacteria could enter into the inner side of your teeth, which is less tolerant to acid. Moreover, it is connected to your nerve system, which could cause sensitivity. The bacteria does not stop here and will continue to attack the next layer of your teeth (pulp) and press your nerves. This is why you always feel pain when having tooth decay. The pain and discomfort could extend through the tooth root to the bone!
Risk Factors
Foods that are hard to wash away
Some foods are difficult to clean and will cling to your teeth for a long time, such as ice cream, sugar, cookies, and chips.
Frequent intake of snacks or sips sugary drinks
They help produce continual acids in your mouth, which creates a perfect environment for the growth of bacteria.
Poor oral hygiene
If you don’t frequently clean your teeth after eating and drinking, it is easier for plaque to form on your teeth. Besides, remember to brush your teeth adequately!
Eating disorders
Eating disorders can also interfere with saliva production and increase your risks to dental caries.
Dry mouth
Saliva is helpful to prevent tooth decay by washing away food and plaque from your teeth and could encounter the acids produced by bacteria. A dry mouth is usually caused by a lack of saliva. Some medical conditions, radiation to your head or neck, or certain chemotherapy drugs can reduce your saliva production.
When tooth decay occurs, it will damage the tooth surface (enamel). Tooth decay can develop anywhere that plaque accumulates, but it is most commonly seen in dental crown fissures and areas between adjoining teeth. Tooth decay is mostly first seen as white spot lesions, which are tiny patches of subsurface demineralization beneath the dental plaque. Plaque acids dissolve minerals in the hard, outer enamel of your teeth. Over a period of time, the severe damage to the teeth' surface may further develop into tiny openings or small holes.
Consequence
Prevention
Improve oral hygiene:
Since bacteria in dental plaque will produce acids that can destroy the tooth surface, it is suggested to brush your teeth at least twice a day to remove dental plaque. Moreover, there is evidence that fluoride can decrease tooth decay prevalence among people, as fluoride can inhibit the demineralization of teeth. It is therefore recommended to increase fluoride use when cleaning the teeth, including fluoride rinses and toothpaste with fluoride.
Reduce the consumption of food with sugars:
According to data, children are more susceptible to tooth decay if their parents have less control over their sweet food intake. Since sugars are the most important dietary factors leading to tooth decay, reducing food consumption with sugars is suggested.
