Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a breakdown of the tooth’s enamel and its underlying layer, the dentin due to acids made by bacteria
Many different types of bacteria normally live in the human mouth. They build up on the teeth in a sticky film called bio-film or plaque. It forms most easily in certain places.
These include:
⦁ Cracks, pits or grooves in the back teeth
⦁ Between teeth
⦁ Around pre existing dental fillings or bridgework
⦁ Near the gum line
The bacteria turn sugar and carbohydrates in the foods we eat into acids. The acids dissolve minerals in the hard enamel that covers the tooth. The enamel erodes or develops pits. They are too small to see at first. But they get larger over time.
Acid also can seep through pores in the enamel. This is how decay begins in the softer dentin layer, the main body of the tooth. As the dentin and enamel break down, a cavity is created.
If the decay is not removed, bacteria will continue to grow and produce acid that eventually will get into the tooth’s inner layer. This contains the soft pulp and sensitive nerve fibers.
Tooth roots exposed by receding gums also can develop decay.
Symptoms
Early caries may not have any symptoms. Later, when the decay has eaten through the enamel, the teeth may have the following symptoms:
⦁ Toothache
⦁ Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods or drinks
⦁ Pain when chewing may not have any symptoms. Later, when the decay has eaten through the enamel, the teeth may have the following symptoms:
⦁ Toothache
⦁ Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods or drinks
⦁ Pain when chewing
Outcome of dental caries
If caries is not treated, it likely will cause the tooth to decay significantly. Eventually, uncontrolled decay may destroy the tooth.