Oral Health Awareness - Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the damage that occurs when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the enamel of your teeth.

The main causes of tooth decay include poor oral hygiene, consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and not visiting the dentist regularly.

You can prevent tooth decay by brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, maintaining a balanced diet, reducing sugary and acidic foods, and visiting the dentist regularly.

Common symptoms of tooth decay include toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, visible holes or pits in your teeth, and black, white, or brown stains on the tooth surface.

Tooth decay is usually diagnosed by a dentist through a visual examination, dental x-rays, and sometimes using special instruments to probe the teeth.

Early stages of tooth decay can sometimes be reversed with fluoride treatments and improved oral hygiene practices, but advanced decay requires professional dental treatment.

Treatments for tooth decay include fluoride treatments, dental fillings, crowns, root canals, and in severe cases, tooth extractions.

Yes, tooth decay is common in children, especially those who consume sugary foods and drinks and have poor oral hygiene habits.

Diets high in sugar and acidic foods and drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay. These substances feed bacteria in the mouth that produce acids, which erode tooth enamel.

Drinking water, especially fluoridated water, helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, and can help prevent tooth decay.

You should visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent and detect any early signs of tooth decay.

Using a fluoride mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay by reducing the amount of bacteria in your mouth and strengthening your enamel.

Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attack and can even help reverse early decay.

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They act as a barrier against plaque and acids, effectively preventing tooth decay.

Both sugary drinks and foods can contribute to tooth decay, but sugary drinks can be particularly harmful as they tend to wash over and cling to the teeth.