WHAT IS CARIES?
Caries also known as tooth decay or cavity.
These are permanently damaged areas in teeth that develop into tiny holes which is caused due to damage of the protective layer called enamel and dentin.
OCCURRENCE
Very common.
More than 10 million cases per year in India.
CAUSES
- Bacteria
- Snacking
- Sipping sugary drinks
- Poor teeth cleaning
- Bad oral hygiene
SYMPTOMS/PRESENTATION
Initially there may be no symptoms.
Teeth may become sensitive to sweets,hot or cold food/drinks.
Untreated cases cause tooth-ache & tooth discoloration.
MOST COMMON SITES/PLACES
Between teeth, cracks/pits in the back teeth, near gum line, around dental fillings.
TREATMENT
Caries is a process.
In its early stages it can be stopped and even reversed.
Untreated or once caries get worse there is a break in the enamel which only a dentist can repair.
Standard treatment consists of removing the decayed part of the cavity or refilling it.
If cavity is big and the remaining tooth is not able to support the filling then the dentist will have to remove the decay and the tooth is then covered with the crown/cap.
Sometimes bacteria may infect the pulp inside the tooth even if the part of tooth you see remains visibly intact. In such cases you will need a root canal treatment (RCT).
WHEN TO CALL/VISIT A DENTIST
Early stages are usually painless. Only regular dental checkups can detect early caries.
If your teeth becomes sensitive to chewing or to hot/cold/sweet foods & drinks, contact your dentist.
PREVENTION
- Brushing and flossing daily.
- Using antibacterial mouth rinses.
- Limiting/reducing intake of sugary or starchy foods.
- Chewing gum that contains xylitol.
- Regular dental checkups.
- Siri Dental Hospital offers all dental services. Visit us as www.Siridentalhospital.com