TOOTH DECAY

Tooth decay is one of the most common diseases that many people suffer from. Mostly children, teens and seniors are affected by dental caries. The main bacteria associated with dental decay is streptococcus mutans and coupled with a diet high in sugar such as these donuts shown is a disaster waiting to happen.

People who have a higher percentage of streptococcus mutans in their saliva are far more prone to dental caries. This unfortunately is linked to hereditary meaning if your parents are susceptible to tooth decay then their is a possibility you will be too. Diet is a very important factor in developing tooth decay. Foods that contain a high amount of sugar such as donuts, candy, chocolate and soda pop puts people at a greater risk for developing tooth decay. It is not exactly the sugar itself that is responsible for the decay process but its the sugar plus existing dental palque (from not brushing regularly) which in turn produces an acid that in turn attacks the enamel to cause a cavity. The key component to tooth decay as with many other things is early detection and treatment. The smaller the cavity the less invasive (not to mention less expensive) if left untreated the cavity will continue to grow and in severe cases affects the nerve of the tooth which means a person would need root canal therapy. Root canal is where a dentist extracts the nerve of the tooth leaving the enamel shell intact and places a rubber like material in the canals of the tooth. Most often following this treatment a crown is then required as the tooth becomes extremely brittle and is at risk for fracturing. A crown covers the entire tooth and most often is made of porcelain fused to metal and it protects the fragile tooth beneath.

Prevention is key to tooth decay. Limiting your dietary sugars and brushing with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day in addition to flossing once a day is highly recommended. Also using a daily fluoride mouth rinse proves to be beneficial. People who are more prone to tooth decay should be having professional topical fluoride varnish treatments at their dental office and be seen at least twice yearly. They may need to have more frequent xrays to help detect new cavities as well. With Valentine’s day around the corner it is okay to have sweet treats occasionally but be sure to brush and floss after!