General Dentistry
Caries Treatment
Traitement
cavities.
WHAT IS TOOTH DECAY?
It is a disease that affects about 90 per cent of the population. It is caused by the action of certain bacteria that can lead to the partial or total destruction of the tooth.
The presence of these bacteria in the mouth, combined with inadequate nutrition and poor oral hygiene, facilitates the development of caries. In extreme situations, tooth decay can lead to infections of varying extents. These infections can have a serious impact on the overall health of the individual.
WHY CAN CAVITIES CAUSE SEVERE PAIN?
The decay process is usually slow and the beginning is marked by the appearance of a white spot on the enamel surface. As it progresses, the stain leads to the formation of a small cavity. Because of this, the bacteria quickly reach the dentin, which is a softer tissue than enamel and therefore more easily dissolved by the acids produced by the bacteria.
In the early stages of the disease (small cavities), no significant symptoms are detected. However, in the more advanced stages (deeper cavities) the complaints can go from discomfort with increased sensitivity and bad breath; but also, to more complicated situations with pain in the presence of different types of stimuli (hot, cold or sweet), and even the appearance of very intense spontaneous pain. In these cases, the decay has reached the dentine, which aggravates the symptoms as it deepens.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE TOOTH DECAY?
When you feel the presence of a cavity, or the absence of a part of the tooth, you will most likely have an advanced cavity lesion.
Early detection of caries is not easy and can usually only be done by dentists.
If you notice a change in colour, such as white, yellowish, brownish or black spots on the upper part of the teeth (grooves and cracks), you can consult our dentists.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT TOOTH DECAY?
- Keep a good oral hygiene every day;
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste;
- Evening brushing is the most important and no food should be eaten after brushing;
- Floss at least once a day, ideally evening time, before going to bed;
- Eat nutritionally balanced meals and limit 'snacking' between meals as much as possible;
- If brushing is not possible after a main meal, you can chew sugar-free gum or eat an apple;
- Have dental check-ups periodically (with most insurance companies you are entitled to a scaling every six months).
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