Dental decay is the destruction of the tooth surfaces due to prolonged exposure to acidic substances. It is typically caused by the build-up of plaque on the hard tissues of the teeth. The bacteria feed on the sugars in the mouth and as a result, releases an acidic by-product which can erode the enamel and lead to cavities. Treatment for dental decay includes fillings, root canals and crowns.
Dental decay is a preventable disease that can be avoided by taking these simple steps -
1. Brush at least twice a day: Brushing once in the morning and again before bed is essential to prevent tooth decay. Brushing your teeth helps to remove plaque a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth. Plaque produces acids that eat away at the enamel layer of the teeth which leads to decay and other dental issues.
2. Attend regular dental examinations: Regular dental check-ups are important to prevent and detect dental decay early. We recommend visiting the dental surgeon for a consultation every 6 months.
3. Invest in an electric toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes are much more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque. This is because of their oscillating motion, which helps to clean the teeth more thoroughly.
4. Floss Daily: Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles that get trapped between your teeth and below the gum line.
5. Regularly visit the hygienist: Visiting the dental hygienist regularly for a dental cleaning will help prevent dental decay by removing any plaque build-up. The build-up of plaque can lead to cavities and tooth decay. The hygienist will also provide advice on tooth brushing and flossing as well as dietary advice to help prevent dental decay.
6. Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a balanced diet with low sugar, high vegetables, whole grains and dairy can help reduce dental decay. We recommend limiting snacking and keeping all sugary foods and drinks to meal times.
Snacks we recommend - Nuts and seeds, carrot sticks and hummus, plain yoghurt, cheese, breadsticks, celery and peanut butter, hard-boiled eggs, and toast with butter. We also recommend opting for water over juices and fizzy drinks.
Snacks we would advise you avoid- dried fruit, cereal bars, fruit roll-ups, smoothies, cakes/cake bars
7. Use fluoride toothpaste - Fluoride toothpaste strengthens the surface of the teeth, this makes the enamel more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. It also helps to remineralise areas of the enamel that have been weakened by these acids. This can reverse early signs of decay and prevent further erosion.
8. Straightening your teeth - Teeth straightening makes brushing and flossing easier. When teeth are properly aligned, it is easier to reach all the areas of the mouth. This helps to remove the plaque build-up and food particles which lead to decay.
We would always recommend treating dental decay as soon as possible, Decay will get worse if left untreated, which will require more extensive and expensive treatment, small cavities can quickly spread and become larger if left untreated. Tooth decay often leads to pain and discomfort and causes difficulty eating. If left untreated decay can lead to more serious problems like tooth infections, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
If you have any concerns about your dental health you can book an examination with one of our dental surgeries. During this exam, they will assess the overall health of your teeth and gums and make recommendations for any necessary treatment.
Our locations -
26 Haywards Rd
Haywards Heath
West Sussex
RH16 4HT
01444 440123
hh@s3dental.co.uk
72 Well Hall Road
Eltham
London
SE9 6SL
0208 850 9836
Eltham@s3dental.co.uk
3 Manor Road North
Hinchley Wood
Esher
Surrey
KT10 0AA
0208 398 6322
HW@s3dental.co.uk