Definition

Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth material, which includes:

• Enamel—the hard outer surface of the tooth
• Dentin—the second softer layer beneath the enamel
• Pulp—the inside of the tooth containing the nerve and blood supply
• Root—the area of the tooth anchoring it in the bone

Tooth Decay

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Causes

Everyone has bacteria in their mouths. The bacteria eat sugars that are left on the tooth, which then creates acid. The acid and the bacteria form plaque on the teeth. This plaque clings to the teeth. It holds the acid to the tooth. The acid wears away the tooth. Over time, the acid can lead to tooth decay.

Risk Factors

Everyone is at risk for tooth decay. Factors that may increase your chance of tooth decay include:

• Snacking
• Having poor dental hygiene
• Having high numbers of bacteria in the mouth
• Having an insufficient amount of fluoride (some communities in the United States add fluoride to the drinking water)
• Taking medications that contain sugar or cause dry mouth
• Eating a diet high in sugar
• Enamel erosion from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or bulimia nervosa
• Malnourishment (such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies)
• Having certain conditions that decrease the flow of saliva in the mouth, such as Sjogren syndrome
• For children: having parents or siblings with severe tooth decay

Babies are also at risk for developing cavities. Habits that can increase the risk include giving a bottle between regular feedings or while in bed at night.

Symptoms

Tooth decay may cause:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• Tooth discomfort after eating
• Darkening of the tooth surface
• Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth
• Throbbing, lingering pain in tooth

Diagnosis

Tooth decay may be diagnosed over a period of time or at a single dental visit. This involves clinical examination as well as x-rays.

A dentist checks for tooth decay by:

• Asking about pain in the teeth
• Visually inspecting the surface of the teeth
• Probing teeth with dental instruments to check for:
  • Sensitivity
  • Pain
  • Softness
  • Surface defects
• Taking x-rays of teeth

Treatment

Sometimes tooth decay will repair itself. This is most likely if it is caught early.

Treatment for more severe decay includes:

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of tooth decay:

• Practice proper dental hygiene, including:
  • Brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste after meals or at least twice per day.
  • Using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a powered toothbrush.
  • Daily flossing between teeth and gums—Bacteria living between the teeth can only be removed with floss or interdental cleaners.
  • Getting regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning (usually every 6 months).
• Limit the amount of sugar and carbohydrates you eat and drink, including:
  • Honey
  • Sodas and other sweetened drinks
  • Candy
  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Other sweets
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating sugars
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
• Avoid sugar-containing drinks (including fruit juices), especially in baby bottles
• Chew gum with xylitol or sorbitol (may reduce your risk of developing cavities)

Talk to your dentist about the use of a sealant. This is a protective plastic covering. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. Sealants usually last anywhere from 5-15 years.

Prevention is particularly important for children. Supplemental fluoride in early childhood can prevent early decay. The dose can be adjusted for the amount of natural or added fluoride in local water supplies. Fluoride can also be applied to permanent teeth as a long acting varnish. Re-varnishing is usually necessary at least twice yearly.