پوسیدگی دندان یکی از شایع‌ترین بیماری‌های دهان و دندان است که در همه سنین دیده می‌شود. If left untreated, this problem can lead to severe pain, infection, and even tooth loss. In this article, we examine the stages of tooth decay, treatment methods, and prevention strategies so that you can maintain your oral health with more knowledge.

Definition of tooth decay

Tooth decay is a gradual process that occurs due to the activity of bacteria in dental plaque and acid production. These acids first destroy tooth enamel and then penetrate into deeper layers such as dentin and pulp.

The main features of tooth decay:

• Beginning with white or brown spots on the tooth surface.
• Gradual progression from enamel to dentin and then pulp.
• Creation of pain, sensitivity and in advanced stages of abscess.

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Stages of tooth decay

• White spot stage

At this stage, the minerals of the tooth enamel are lost and a white spot appears on the surface of the tooth. By observing oral hygiene and using fluoride, it is possible to return and restore naturally.

• The step of creating an enamel cavity

Caries appear as small holes in tooth enamel that cannot be reversed. The treatment of this stage is usually done by filling the tooth with restorative materials.

• Dentin penetration stage

When decay reaches the dentin, the rate of destruction increases and pain and sensitivity increase. At this stage, there is a need for extensive repair or even denervation.

• The stage of reaching the pulp

The decay reaches the inner part of the tooth, i.e. pulp and nerve, and causes inflammation or infection. Root canal treatment (nervectomy) is necessary to save the tooth at this stage.

• Abscess stage

In the most advanced stage, severe infection is created and swelling or abscess is formed. In this case, the tooth may need extraction or surgical treatment.

Symptoms of tooth decay

• White, brown or black spots:

These color changes are a sign of the beginning of tooth enamel destruction and should be taken seriously.

• Sensitivity to heat, cold or sweets:

• Pain when chewing:

• Chronic bad breath:

Accumulation of bacteria and tooth decay can lead to permanent bad breath.

• Create a visible hole:

The progress of caries causes a hole or cavity in the surface of the tooth that can be seen with the eye.

The main causes of tooth decay

• High consumption of sugar and sweets:

• Non-observance of oral and dental hygiene:

Not brushing and flossing will cause plaque to remain and increase caries.

• Decreased secretion of saliva (dry mouth):

Saliva has a protective role and its deficiency will increase the risk of caries.

• Not using dental floss:

• Not visiting the dentist regularly:

درمان پوسیدگی دندان

• مرحله اولیه:

در این مرحله با استفاده از فلوراید و اصلاح رژیم غذایی می‌توان روند پوسیدگی را متوقف کرد.

• حفره‌های کوچک:

زمانی که پوسیدگی به سوراخ‌های سطحی تبدیل شود، دندان با مواد کامپوزیت یا آمالگام ترمیم می‌گردد

• پیشرفت به عاج:

اگر پوسیدگی به عاج برسد، درد و حساسیت افزایش می‌یابد و نیاز به ترمیم گسترده یا عصب‌کشی وجود دارد.

• رسیدن به پالپ:

در این مرحله پوسیدگی به عصب دندان نفوذ کرده و التهاب یا عفونت ایجاد می‌کند. درمان ریشه (RCT) برای حفظ دندان و رفع درد ضروری است.

• تخریب شدید:

وقتی پوسیدگی بسیار پیشرفته باشد، دندان باید کشیده شود و با ایمپلنت یا بریج جایگزین گردد.

پیشگیری از پوسیدگی دندان

• مسواک زدن منظم با خمیر دندان فلورایددار:

مسواک زدن دوبار در روز با خمیر دندان مناسب، پلاک‌های میکروبی را از بین می‌برد و مینای دندان را تقویت می‌کند.

• استفاده روزانه از نخ دندان:

نخ دندان ذرات غذایی و باکتری‌ها را از بین دندان‌ها پاک می‌کند و مانع تجمع پلاک در نواحی غیرقابل دسترس می‌شود.

• کاهش مصرف شکر و نوشابه:

محدود کردن مواد قندی و نوشیدنی‌های اسیدی، تولید اسید توسط باکتری‌ها را کاهش داده و خطر پوسیدگی را کم می‌کند.

• نوشیدن آب کافی برای افزایش بزاق:

بزاق نقش محافظتی دارد و با شست‌وشوی دهان از تجمع باکتری‌ها جلوگیری می‌کند. Drinking enough water increases the secretion of saliva.

• Using fluoride mouthwash:

Fluoride mouthwash strengthens tooth enamel and increases its resistance to caries.

• Periodic visit to the dentist:

Regular examination allows early detection of caries and its rapid treatment and prevents the progression of the disease.

Comparison table of stages of tooth decay

Questions and answers

1. Can tooth decay be treated in the early stages?
Yes, in the white spot stage, you can stop the decay process with fluoride and oral hygiene.

2. When should you go to the dentist?
As soon as you see white or brown spots, unusual pain or sensitivity, you should go to the dentist.

3. Is tooth decay hereditary?
No, but tooth structure and enamel resistance can be affected by genetic factors.

4. What is the best way to prevent caries?
Regular brushing, flossing, healthy eating, and periodic visits to the dentist are the best solutions.

5. Do all decayed teeth need nerve extraction?
No, root canal treatment is necessary only when the decay reaches the pulp and nerve of the tooth.

Summary

Tooth decay is a gradual but completely preventable disease that starts from the initial stages with white spots and, if neglected, can progress to the stage of abscess and tooth loss. Its symptoms include discoloration, sensitivity, pain, and bad breath, and the main causes of caries are mostly related to lifestyle and poor oral hygiene.

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