Caries: causes, symptoms and treatment

This condition is more common than you think, but its long-term effects, without proper treatment, can lead to tooth loss. Cavities have their origin in the accumulation of dental plaque , produced by the bacteria that live in our mouth, saliva and the food we consume daily, if this plaque is not constantly eliminated, through brushing, it begins to decompose and damage the enamel, creating holes in the teeth. Although in an initial phase, cavities do not cause pain, if neglected, it can become larger and reach the nerves.

The most common causes of cavities are:

• Consumption of carbohydrates such as sugars and starches and especially those that have a viscous appearance, since they are the ones that remain on the tooth for the longest time.
• Acidic foods make the tooth lose its minerals and help plaque build up.
• The lack of fluoride increases the chances of tooth decay occur because the enamel is weakened.
• Lack of hygiene.
• Medicines, especially those used in childhood, since they usually have a high amount of sugar.
• Buca l pH has to do with the degree of acidity in your mouth and is different in each person and is a risk factor for tooth decay.

There are four phases in which cavities develop, until the destruction of the tooth:

• First phase : it is where cavities begin to develop, at this point the damage occurs in the most superficial and hard part of the tooth, the enamel, so it is common that no pain is felt at this point.
• Second phase : the teeth are composed of a substance called dentin and in this phase that area is the most affected and pain begins to appear.
• Third phase : from here the caries progresses more quickly and will reach the dental pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth are located.
• Fourth phase : it is the most critical, since the decay will reach the periodontal ligaments, which join the tissue to the bone, allowing abscesses to form and even causing the tooth to detach.

The symptoms of cavities will depend on the phase in which it is:

• In the first phase there is no type of discomfort.
• From the second phase, the pain in the teeth or teeth begins when consuming cold and hot foods and above all, sweets.
• In the third phase it is even more painful and small holes can be seen in the teeth .
• If the decay reaches the fourth stage, abscesses will form and tooth loosening may occur .

To treat cavities or pitted teeth , the main thing will be to know the phase in which you are.

For the first and second phase, the treatment will be as follows:

• Amalgams : what is done is to remove the part that is decayed and it is replaced with an alloy that can be silver, gold, resin or porcelain that solidifies immediately.

In the third phase, the following treatment will be placed:

• Endodontics or root canal treatment : in this case, the root of the tooth is disinfected, removing the nerve and vascular tissue. The tooth is filled with sealing material and it is generally necessary to make a dental crown that is used, either to improve the appearance of the tooth or to regain its functional structure.

The fourth phase will consist of the following treatment:

• Dental implant : as the damage to the tooth is total, it will be necessary to remove it completely and replace it with an implant or artificial tooth , made of materials that do not produce rejection and allow it to join the bone.

The best we can do to prevent cavities is to maintain proper oral hygiene, however there are also other measures to which we must pay attention:

• Visit your dentist every 6 months for a deep cleaning.
• Brush your teeth at least 3 times a day, use dental floss and a mouthwash.
• Rinse your teeth after eating slimy, chewy foods.
• Avoid consuming sugary drinks.
• Eat foods rich in fluoride such as salmon, cod, cheese, spinach, oatmeal, walnuts, and almonds.
• Avoid snacks, as they contain sugar in their composition and they will turn into acid, damaging tooth enamel.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Caries: causes, symptoms and treatment , we recommend that you enter our category of Teeth and mouth .