Dental cavities are one of the most common oral problems that affect millions of people worldwide. If you are looking for an exact answer to the question "What is a tooth cavity?" This comprehensive article will help you learn about all aspects of tooth decay, from causes and symptoms to prevention and modern treatments. Cavities are not only a simple problem, they can lead to serious infections and tooth loss. In this article, we take an in-depth look at dental cavities and provide practical tips for maintaining your oral health. Let's start this journey together and find out how you can prevent tooth decay.
Dental cavity, or tooth decay, is a process in which tooth enamel - the hard and protective outer layer - is gradually destroyed and creates a hole or cavity. This problem starts with the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth and if it is not treated, it penetrates into the deeper layers of the tooth.
Imagine your teeth are strong like a castle; Tooth enamel builds its walls, but bacteria and sugars erode these walls. Due to the high sugar diet and limited access to dental care in some areas, this problem has become a problem. Tooth cavity appears not only in back teeth (molars) where chewing is more common, but also in smooth and interdental surfaces. Early symptoms include sensitivity to hot and cold, mild pain when chewing, or white/brown spots on the enamel. If you recognize it early, you can prevent its progress.
Primary treatment of a cavity is simple, but neglecting it can lead to an abscess. A simple radiograph can reveal hidden cavities.
Reasons Tooth cavity formation: hidden and obvious factors
Dental cavity is the result of a complex interaction of biological, environmental and behavioral factors. Bacteria in dental plaque—the sticky layer of biofilm on teeth—play a major role. These bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, convert sugars in food into acids. These acids acidify the pH of the mouth and dissolve tooth enamel, which is called "demineralization".
1. Improper diet
High consumption of sweets, carbonated drinks and simple carbohydrates are the main fuel for bacteria. For example, a can of soda can keep the pH of the mouth acidic for up to 30 minutes. In Iran, with the popularity of sweet tea and traditional sweets, this factor is very common. Studies show that people who consume more than 50 grams of sugar per day are 4 times more exposed to cavities.
2. Poor oral hygiene
None Toothbrush Brushing regularly (twice a day) and not flossing allows plaque to build up. Fluoride – the mineral in toothpaste – can strengthen enamel, but is ineffective without regular use. dry Mouth (xerostomia) caused by drugs or diseases such as diabetes, reduces saliva; Saliva plays the role of an acid buffer and without it, the tooth cavity progresses faster.
3. Genetic and environmental factors
Some people genetically have thinner enamel, which makes them more susceptible to cavities. In areas with low fluoride water, the risk increases. Smoking and alcohol also make bacteria more active. In children, a bottle of milk with sugar before bedtime causes "bottle rot".
4. Lesser known factors
Understanding these reasons will empower you to change your lifestyle and prevent tooth decay.
Prevention of cavities is better than cure, and by following a few simple habits, you can reduce your risk by 80%.
1. Daily oral hygiene
twice every day2. Smart diet
Limit sugar: Choose fresh fruit instead of sweets. After sweet meals, rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acid. Calcium and phosphorus from dairy products and nuts restore enamel. Fluoridated drinking water (0.7 ppm) is the best prevention. See a dentist every 6 months. Sealants—resin layers on the grooves of teeth—prevent cavities in children by up to 90 percent. Topical fluoride therapy or homemade gels are also effective. For high-risk people, fluoride varnish is prescribed every 3 months. Exercise chewing sugar-free gum (contains xylitol) stimulates saliva and balances pH - 10 minutes daily after meals. For children, it is useful to teach brushing with playful applications. During pregnancy, mothers reduce caries in themselves and the fetus with calcium supplements. Regular exercise also keeps the mouth healthy by reducing stress. With these methods, you can challenge the tooth cavity and create a lasting smile. Once a cavity is diagnosed, prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading. Treatment steps depend on the depth of decay. In the initial stages, the dentist removes the decay with a drill and with Composite or amalgam fillings. This process takes 30-60 minutes and is minimally painful (with local anesthesia). For deep cavities, a root canal is necessary; The dentist removes the infected nerve and fills the canal, then places a crown. Laser lasers are also used to remove caries without pain. If you're afraid of the drill, ozone therapy—the injection of ozone gas to kill bacteria—is a non-invasive option. Nanotechnology with silver particles stops decay without drilling. For children, sedative fillings reduce pain. Home remedies, such as oil pulling with coconut or manuka honey, reduce bacteria, but are not a substitute for a dental visit. In advanced cases, implants or bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Untreated complications include chronic pain, gum infection and even heart problems (due to bacteria entering the blood). After filling, avoid hard foods and keep the mouth clean. Antibiotics are prescribed only for infection. Follow-up with photography ensures the success of the treatment. By choosing the right treatment, you can save your teeth and say goodbye to cavities. An untreated cavity penetrates the dentine layer (under the enamel) and causes severe pain. In advanced stages, it reaches the pulp (nerve) and forms an abscess – a painful swelling that causes fever and swelling of the face. Studies show that 20% of untreated caries lead to tooth loss. In children, it can disrupt jaw development; In adults, it is related to systemic diseases such as arthritis. Prevention and early treatment is the key to avoid these complications.3. Regular inspections and advanced tools
4. Side preventions and appropriate exercises
1. Standard treatments
2. Alternative and new treatments
3. Post-treatment care
Complications Tooth cavity: why you should not ignore it
