Tooth Decay(Cavities; Dental Caries; Dental Decay)
by
Rick Alan DefinitionTooth decay is the destruction of tooth material, which includes:
CausesEveryone has bacteria in their mouths. The bacteria eat sugars that are left on the tooth, which then creates acid. The acid and the bacteria form plaque on the teeth. This plaque clings to the teeth. It holds the acid to the tooth. The acid wears away the tooth. Over time, the acid can lead to tooth decay. Risk FactorsEveryone is at risk for tooth decay. Factors that may increase your chance of tooth decay include:
Babies are also at risk for developing cavities. Habits that can increase the risk include giving a bottle between regular feedings or while in bed at night. SymptomsTooth decay may cause:
DiagnosisTooth decay may be diagnosed over a period of time or at a single dental visit. This involves clinical examination as well as x-rays. A dentist checks for tooth decay by:
TreatmentSometimes tooth decay will repair itself. This is most likely if it is caught early. Treatment for more severe decay includes: FillingsWhen decay reaches the dentin, the dentist will treat it by:
Root CanalTooth decay that reaches the pulp and/or root of the tooth is treated with a root canal:
Tooth Extraction (Removal)Tooth extraction may be necessary if:
If the tooth is removed, it will be replaced with a:
PreventionTo help reduce your chance of tooth decay:
Talk to your dentist about the use of a sealant. This is a protective plastic covering. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. Sealants usually last anywhere from 5-15 years. Prevention is particularly important for children. Supplemental fluoride in early childhood can prevent early decay. The dose can be adjusted for the amount of natural or added fluoride in local water supplies. Fluoride can also be applied to permanent teeth as a long acting varnish. Re-varnishing is usually necessary at least twice yearly. RESOURCES:Academy of General Dentistry http://www.agd.org Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association http://www.mouthhealthy.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dental Association http://www.cda-adc.ca The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association http://www.cdha.ca References:
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Lancet. 2007:369(9555):51-59. Statement on early childhood caries. American Dental Association website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 22, 2017. Tooth decay. National Institutes of Health website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed August 22, 2017. Twetman S. Consistent evidence to support the use of xylitol- and sorbitol-containing chewing gum to prevent dental caries.
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Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods, MD, FAAP Last Updated: 7/15/2014 |
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