When you think of tooth decay you may think of Victorian England, the Black Plague, or some other time in history. However, tooth decay is not just a historical problem. In fact, it is one of the most common diseases in the world today. If you have teeth, you are at risk for developing cavities. But by knowing the signs of tooth decay and taking action early on, you can prevent your teeth from becoming irreparable. Cavities usually begin as small spots on your teeth that are hard to notice and are often found under the surface of your gums. Left untreated, these small spots will continue to grow until they develop into large holes in your teeth. Know more about this dental treatment!
What are the symptoms of Tooth Decay?
Before you get to the point that your tooth is irreparably damaged, there are some symptoms that you can watch out for that might indicate a problem.
Swelling or Redness – If swelling occurs near your tooth, it might be a sign that the nerve inside is irritated and infected. If this happens, it will only get worse if the tooth decay is not treated.
Tooth Discolouration – When tooth decay reaches the dentin, the part of the tooth below the enamel, it can cause browning or discolouration of your teeth. Get dental treatment.
Canker Sores – If a tooth becomes so decayed that the soft inner tissues are exposed, you may experience sores in that area. These sores should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to the rest of your mouth.
Tooth Sensitivity – Some tooth decay is so deep that it can cause your tooth to become sensitive to hot or cold liquids.
Bad Breath – If infected gums are growing around your teeth, they might be releasing bacteria into your mouth. These bacteria can cause bad breath and lead to more serious health problems.
Tooth Pain – Advanced tooth decay can cause pain in your teeth, which can be a sign that the infection has spread to the rest of your mouth.
Impact of Tooth Decay | Dental Treatment
While these symptoms may not seem like a big deal to begin with, something needs to be done before these minor issues can become major problems. The most serious impact of tooth decay is tooth loss. If not treated quickly, the bacteria in the decaying tooth can spread to other teeth and the surrounding gums, causing them to become infected, too.
If the infection is not treated, the gums can recede and expose the roots of the teeth. The roots of the teeth are where blood vessels and nerves are located. When exposed, the blood vessels can become infected, which can result in tooth loss if the infection is not treated. While tooth decay is not a disease, it can cause other diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. When bacteria in your mouth spreads to other parts of your body, it can cause these diseases.
How to prevent Tooth Decay?
The bacteria in the mouth form acids that dissolve the minerals in the teeth decaying the teeth. Luckily, there are a few ways you can reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Nutrition – Make sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet in order to keep your teeth healthy. You can also visit a dentist for advice on healthy foods for your teeth.
Oral Hygiene – Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can keep your mouth clean, removing the leftover food particles that can lead to tooth decay.
Avoid Sugary Drinks – Drinking soda and sugary drinks like juice can increase your risk of tooth decay.
Try Natural Remedies
Reduce Sugar Intake – Avoid sugary foods and drinks, especially ones that contain sticky sugars that linger in your mouth and cause tooth decay.
Replace Regular Toothpaste – Toothpaste is not good for everyone. If you have sensitive teeth, you should avoid regular toothpaste as it is too abrasive. Instead, use a natural toothpaste like baking soda or coconpeppermint, basil, and sage.
Get Your Fluoride – If you don’t drink tap water, you can get your fluoride from toothpaste, mouthwash, supplements, or floss.
Limit Coffee and Alcohol – Coffee and alcohol can cause your teeth to become more sensitive to hot and cold liquids, increasing your risk for tooth decay.
Use Fluoride-Based Products
There are a few products that can help prevent tooth decay naturally. While these products won’t replace regular oral hygiene, they can be used in addition to brushing and flossing for enhanced protection against decay.
Mouthwash – Mouthwash can help kill the bacteria in your mouth that causes tooth decay. Choose one that contains fluoride.
Fluoride Toothpaste – Using fluoride toothpaste can reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Fluoride Gels – Fluoride gels are applied to your teeth to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Mouthwash – Using fluoride mouthwash can minimise the amount of bacteria in your mouth, and therefore reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Fluoride Strips – Fluoride strips are placed on your teeth to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Use Professional Dental Treatment
There are certain oral health issues that necessitate professional care. Some of the following may need help from a dentist or a medical professional:
Tooth pain – If you feel a toothache coming on, have it looked at by a dentist immediately. Tooth pain can be a sign of serious infections, like endocarditis.
Teeth discolouration – If your teeth have become discoloured, you may need professional treatment to whiten them again.
Tooth sensitivity – If something in your teeth is causing it to be sensitive, you may need a root canal treatment to remove the offending object.
Gum disease – If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, you may need antibiotics or a deep cleaning to treat the infection.
Conclusion
Decay is preventable and treatable. By following good oral hygiene, staying away from sugary foods, and getting your fluoride, you can keep your teeth healthy for life. If you notice any of the signs of tooth decay, go see a dentist as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become.
Follow Us For More Updates