Tooth decay is where plaque (a combination of bacteria, acid, food, and saliva) forms on the teeth and causes a hard outer layer on the teeth or the enamel. This layer will decay or weaken the tooth. This causes pain, infections and the loss of teeth, which can affect both children and adults.
Toothaches are one of the most common signs of tooth decay. Pain may be mild at first and is only felt when biting on hard foods, but over time pain will be experienced even when eating soft foods. The pain will continue to increase as the tooth decay forms.
Tooth sensitivity can be described as a tickle or tingle in the teeth. It is commonly experienced when eating or drinking hot or cold food and acidic or sugary foods. While it might not be painful, it is a clear sign of tooth decay
Swollen or bleeding gums are a clear indication that something is wrong with the teeth. This is usually tooth decay caused by improper oral hygiene.
As aforementioned, tooth decay is formed by bad bacteria. This same bacteria leads to persistent bad breath as bacteria has already penetrated the tooth. This is identified by a bad taste in the mouth even after brushing the teeth and while brushing the tongue.
This is the last stage of tooth decay before holes start to form in the teeth. Dark brown, grey and even white spots form as bacteria makes its way down into the enamel and can even conceal a hole that has already formed in the teeth.
Luckily, if detected early, tooth decay can be treated. Any further harm or tooth decay can be prevented if appropriate measures are taken.
•Using fluoride is one way to stop tooth decay in its tracks. Fluoride can be acquired through fluoridated water or by purchasing fluoride toothpaste. Dentists may also prescribe fluoride tablets, apply fluoride gel or suggest using a fluoride mouthwash. This will prevent the loss of minerals in the enamel, replace minerals lost and kills acid-forming bacteria.
•Dental sealants may be applied by a dentist to treat tooth decay. This covers the surfaces of molars and prevents food and bacteria from becoming trapped in tiny crevices that would cause further decay.
•If decay has caused holes to form in the teeth, the dentist may suggest getting a filling or a crown. Here, the decay is removed and the space is filled.
To prevent tooth decay from forming again, it is recommended that people:
•Reduce the amount of sugar and starch in their diet, and substitute it for tooth-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, or dairy products.
•Brush and floss the teeth regularly. This includes the gums and light cleaning of the gums. Mouthwash is also recommended because it thoroughly cleanses the entire mouth.
•Visit the dentists regularly in order to have their teeth cleaned properly and inspected for signs of problems.
If you are to have a healthy mouth, you must know how to detect the signs of tooth decay. Inspect your teeth regularly before it is too late!
Request an appointment here: https://balmoraldentalcenter.com or call Balmoral Dental Center at (256) 660-3094 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Wondering what an emergency dentist can do for you? Read on to learn more about this type of dental health professional. Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly, causing significant discomfort and anxiety. An emergency dentist can help in such cases. They provide immediate care and relief by addressing urgent dental problems that cannot wait for a…
Emergency dentists treat a range of oral health concerns, including toothaches. A minor toothache may not be an emergency, but a severe toothache that lingers for an extended period of time or suddenly worsens likely requires immediate dental care to prevent any additional oral health concerns and ensure ideal long-term oral health. This review highlights how…
When you have a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is call an emergency dentist. An emergency dentist is trained and experienced in handling dental emergencies. Dental emergencies can be debilitating and even life-threatening.Many dentists now offer emergency dental treatments in addition to their regular dental treatments. If there is a dental emergency,…
An emergency dentist provides dental care on short notice. Many emergency dentists take walk-ins, while some practices have a dentist on call to respond to emergencies.You should have the contacts of an emergency dentist on hand, just in case the unexpected happens. An emergency dentist's phone number and physical location enable you to receive urgent…