The cavities are among the most common health problems in the world. They are especially common in children, adolescents and older adults. However, anyone with teeth can get cavities.
If cavities are not treated, they get bigger and affect the deeper layers of the teeth. They can lead to severe toothache, infection and tooth loss. Regular dental visits and good habits of brushing and flossing go a long way towards the prevention of dental caries.
Symptoms of decay
Signs and symptoms of tooth decay vary depending on their size and location. When a cavity is beginning, you may not have any symptoms at all. However, the dentist may be able to see that the decline is starting and recommend measures to prevent it from getting worse.
As the cavity becomes larger, it can cause signs and symptoms such as:
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity
- Mild to severe pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold
- Visible holes or pits on teeth
- Pain when biting
- Pus around the teeth, especially when you press on the gums
Causes of tooth decay
The cavities are caused by dental caries – a process that occurs with time. It begins with the action of bacteria that damage the hard surface (enamel) of the teeth, a process that can occur without feeling discomfort. Those holes or cavities can then move on to the deeper layers of the teeth in the following steps:
- The plate is formed. Mouth, like many other parts of the body naturally contains many types of bacteria. Some of these bacteria thrive in foods and beverages containing certain sugars, also known as fermentable carbohydrates. When these sugars are not cleaned from the teeth, the bacteria begin to feed on them quickly and produce acids. Bacteria, acid, food particles and saliva then form dental plaque – a sticky film that coats the teeth. When you pass the tongue over your teeth, you can feel the plate begins to form several hours after brushing. The plate is slightly rough and is most noticeable in the posterior teeth, especially near the gums.
Plaque attacks. The acids removed from the plate on the disk minerals tooth enamel outside. This erosion causes small openings or holes in the enamel – the first stage of decay. Once areas