Join us in unraveling the chronicles of tooth decay, examining preventive actions and treatments at each juncture.
Did you know that tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease in Australia, affecting both children and adults?
Characterised by the deterioration of a tooth’s enamel, tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that harm this protective outer layer.
Left untreated, it can lead to serious dental issues like gum disease and infections. This blog explores the possibility of reversing tooth decay, shedding light on prevention measures and available treatments.
Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
Here, we have compiled a list of causes and corresponding Preventive Actions to take in the fight against Tooth Decay:
Cause: Poor Oral Hygiene
Preventive Action: Embrace a routine of brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and regular dental check-ups to combat plaque buildup.
Cause: Sugary and Starchy Diet
Preventive Action: Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, minimising sugary and starchy foods. Drinking water promotes oral health.
Cause: Dry Mouth
Preventive Action: Stay hydrated with water throughout the day. Chewing sugar-free gum or using mouthwash designed to increase mouth moisture can also be beneficial.
Cause: Smoking
Preventive Action: Quit smoking to reduce the risk of tooth decay and other dental complications associated with decreased saliva production.
Stages of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay evolves through distinct stages, each presenting unique symptoms and requiring specific interventions. Let’s take a closer look at the various phases of tooth decay and their corresponding treatments.
Initial Stage: White Spots on the Tooth
The enamel, the tooth’s resilient outer layer, can develop white, chalky spots when exposed to prolonged acidic plaque accumulation. This marks the onset of tooth decay. Fluoride treatments, such as varnish or fluoride-rich oral care products, can reverse early enamel demineralisation.
Progression: Brown Decay on Enamel
Neglected decay advances, turning white spots into brown, and cavities may form. Increased sensitivity accompanies this stage. To prevent further damage, the cavities require filling. Dentists remove decayed portions and apply fillings to restore the tooth’s structure.
Advancement: Decay of the Dentin
Beyond the enamel, decay infiltrates the dentin, a softer layer. Rapid decay progression occurs, accompanied by heightened tooth sensitivity and pain. Larger dental fillings can address early dentin decay, while extensive damage may necessitate a dental crown. This involves removing decay, reshaping the tooth, and placing a cap to restore function and appearance.
Escalation: Pulp Damage
Deepening decay reaches the pulp, housing nerves and blood vessels. Severe pain or asymptomatic conditions may arise. Root canal therapy becomes imperative to eliminate infection and preserve the tooth. A dental crown is then applied for added strength and protection.
Culmination: Tooth Infection
In the final stage, bacterial accumulation in the decaying pulp leads to infection. Symptoms may include abscess formation, inflamed gums, and, in extreme cases, facial swelling. If root canal treatment and a crown prove insufficient, tooth extraction becomes a last resort to avert systemic health risks.
Is it Possible to Reverse Tooth Decay?
In the initial phases, fluoride treatments may reverse damage to the tooth enamel. However, once decay progresses, treatments like fillings, crowns, root canals, and extractions become necessary to address different levels of decay.
Treatment for Advanced Tooth Decay
Dental Fillings: Used when decay is present, filling materials include composite resin, porcelain, metal, or a combination of materials. The decay is removed, and the cavity is sealed.
Dental Crown: For extensive decay, a crown is placed over the tooth after removing decay. Materials like composite resin, porcelain, ceramic, or metal are commonly used.
Root Canal: If infection reaches the tooth pulp, a root canal involves removing infected tissue, cleaning the interior, and sealing the tooth.
Extraction: In severe cases, where the tooth is significantly decayed, extraction may be necessary. Subsequent options include dental implants or bridges to restore lost teeth.
Conclusion
The Australian Dental Association recommends regular check-ups every six months for early diagnosis and prevention of oral health issues.
Promptly consulting a dentist when symptoms like swollen gums, bleeding, or tooth sensitivity arise is crucial. Early-stage decay may benefit from fluoride treatments, while more advanced cases may require diverse treatments such as fillings, crowns, root canals, or extractions.
Remember, early intervention can prevent decay from advancing and becoming more severe.
Your dentist will tailor a treatment plan to ensure optimal oral health based on your individual needs and history. To book an appointment with our Friendly Dentist in Molonglo Valley, Canberra. Contact Molonglo Dental Surgery at 02 6287 1222.
