Tooth decay is a common dental condition that affects people of all ages. If left untreated, it can result in cavities, discomfort, and even tooth loss. Maintaining good oral health for Show Low, Arizona citizens requires knowledge of the causes and remedies of tooth decay. To assist you in safeguarding your smile, this blog post attempts to give you thorough information on tooth decay, its causes, and the possible remedies as described by dentist in Show Low, AZ.

What is Tooth Decay?

Dental caries (cavities) are tooth decay, caused by the breakdown of teeth due to bacteria. This destruction is brought on by acids that are produced by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria feed on sugars from foods and drinks, creating acids that erode the tooth structure, over time, resulting in cavities.

Causes of Tooth Decay

Multiple factors can lead to tooth decay. The most prevalent reason behind it is the reflective oral clean habits. Lack of brushing and flossing leads to a build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. That plaque creates acids that eat enamel, causing decay. But regular dental checkups also fell victim, because professional cleanings are needed to remove tartar (hardened plaque) and spot early signs of decay.

Diet is one of the most important factors in tooth decay. Eating sweet foods and drinking liquids provides bacteria with energy, which makes acids that wear away the enamel. Grazing, in particular on sugary or starchy foods, keeps a constant supply of sugars for bacteria, raising the risk of decay. Dry mouth, which lowers saliva production, may also make them more prone to tooth decay. Since saliva works to neutralize acid and flush away food particles, lower levels of it make teeth more susceptible to decay.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

The most frequent signs included heightened tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Another sign that should alert you to tooth decay is a persistent or recurrent toothache.

Treatments for Dental Caries

If you think that tooth decay has ruined your teeth, you need to visit a dentist as soon as possible.

Fluoride treatments can also reverse the process in the early stage of decay, by remineralizing the enamel. Fluoride is applied to the teeth in gel, foam, or varnish form at a dental visit.

For this more advanced decay that built up cavities, your dentist will remove the decayed material and fill the cavity with a tooth-colored composite resin, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance. If the decay is so deep that there is no strength left in the tooth, it can be treated with a dental crown. The decayed part is removed, and the tooth is then covered with a crown of porcelain, ceramic, or metal to restore the strength of the tooth and improve its appearance.

Preventing Tooth Decay

It is easier to avoid tooth decay than to cure it. Regular brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing are important measures to keep teeth and gum healthy since these practices will remove food and plaque from the mouth. Biannual cleaning and checkups with a dentist are very important too. A diet limited in sugar and acidity, staying hydrated and the use of dental sealants can greatly reduce the chance of developing caries as well.

Tooth decay is caused by various other health issues that can be treated easily with healthy eating and a proper routine of oral hygiene. By knowing what causes tooth decay and how it can be treated, Show Low, AZ, residents can do their part to keep their teeth healthy and beautiful for years to come! And if you think you might have a cavity or are already overdue for preventive care, call your local dentist to make sure you keep your teeth as strong and healthy as possible.