Tooth decay can produce a foul smell. It’s important to catch it early and get rid of the decay to prevent further damage.
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What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems. It is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth, which leads to the formation of holes, or cavities. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel, causing decay.
Tooth decay can occur on any surface of the tooth, but it is most common on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) and on the front teeth (incisors). It can also occur in between the teeth (interproximal cavities).
Tooth decay is a slow process and usually does not cause symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. However, at this point, it can cause pain, sensitivity to hot and cold drinks or food, and even tooth loss.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth that produces acid. This acid can damage the tooth enamel, which is the hard outer layer of the tooth. The damage to the tooth enamel can cause cavities, or small holes, in the teeth. Tooth decay is a preventable disease, but it is still one of the most common chronic diseases in children.
How does tooth decay progress?
Tooth decay is a type of damage to your teeth that can happen when tooth enamel weakens and breaks down. Tooth decay can cause cavities ( holes in your teeth ), tooth pain, and gum disease.
Tooth decay is caused by acids that attack the tooth enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth. acids are produced when sugary and starchy foods mix with bacteria in your mouth.
You can prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth every day, using a fluoride toothpaste, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
What does tooth decay smell like?
The main symptom of tooth decay is a hole in your tooth. This is usually caused by a build-up of plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria. If plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can damage your gums and the roots of your teeth.
Tooth decay can also cause:
-sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
-pain when you bite down
-visible holes or pits in your teeth
-black spots on your teeth
-toothache
-bad breath
-gum disease
What are the symptoms of tooth decay?
Tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in the mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and not cleaning your teeth well. When these substances combine, they form plaque, a sticky film that clings to your teeth.
If plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and turn into tartar (calculus). Once tartar forms, it’s more difficult to remove and can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Tartar can irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed. This is called gingivitis, and it’s the earliest stage of gum disease.
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more serious form of gum disease damages the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
The symptoms of tooth decay can include:
-Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
-Visible holes or pits in your teeth
-Pain when you bite down or chew
-Toothache
-Bad breath
How is tooth decay diagnosed?
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems, and it can happen to anyone. It’s important to catch it early so it can be treated before it becomes a more serious problem. But how do you know if you have tooth decay?
One way to tell is by looking for signs of tooth decay. These can include:
-Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
-visible holes or pits in your teeth
-tooth pain
-dark spots on your teeth
Another way to tell if you have tooth decay is by looking at X-rays of your teeth. Your dentist will look for any dark spots on your teeth that might be cavities.
But the best way to diagnose tooth decay is to use a special camera that takes pictures of your teeth. This camera can show even the smallest areas of decay. Your dentist will then be able to see if you have a cavity and how big it is.
How is tooth decay treated?
Tooth decay is treated by breaking up the tooth and removing the decayed tissue. This is done using a small, hand-held drill. The area is then cleaned and filled with a tooth-colored resin.
Can tooth decay be prevented?
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth that breaks down tooth enamel and causes holes, called cavities. It can lead to pain, sensitivity, and, in severe cases, infection.
There are steps you can take to prevent tooth decay, including:
-Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
-Cleaning between your teeth every day
-Eating a healthy diet and avoiding sugary snacks
-Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
What are the long-term effects of tooth decay?
## Long-term effects of tooth decay
While cavities and tooth decay can lead to pain and sensitivity, if left untreated, they can also cause more serious problems. Tooth decay can eventually lead to an infection in the tooth called pulpitis. This is when the blood supply and nerves in the tooth become inflamed or infected. Pulpitis can be extremely painful and may require a root canal to fix.
If tooth decay is left untreated for too long, it can also lead to an abscessed tooth. This occurs when bacteria from the infection spread to the root of the tooth or to the bones surrounding it. An abscessed tooth can be very painful and may require surgery to fix. Additionally, if not treated promptly, an abscessed tooth could lead to a life-threatening infection.
What are the risks of untreated tooth decay?
Untreated tooth decay can lead to a number of serious health problems, including infection, abscesses, and even death. The bacteria that cause tooth decay can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition. The high levels of sugar in the mouth can also lead to diabetes and other serious health problems.