Tooth decay is the process by which hard tooth structure is infected and becomes weak and soft. How does this happen? There are bacteria that exist in the mouth and they thrive on sugar. Any Food with sugar (candy, carbohydrates, soda etc...) will cause the bacteria to produce an acid. It is this acid that causes decay. The hard outer shell of a tooth is made of Enamel and the softer inner part of a tooth is referred to as the Dentin. When decay only affects the enamel it is possible for the enamel to remineralize. However, if the decay begins to get into the dentin then the tooth needs to be treated. The part of the tooth that is infected must be removed and a proper restoration must be placed depending on the extent of the infection. (Filling, Inlay, Onlay, Crown)
Tooth decay occurs when a specific bacteria (that lives on the tooth surface) consumes the "left-over" carbohydrates remaining on teeth after eating. In turn, this bacteria secretes (poops) out acid. This acid melts a hole through your enamel (the protective armor on teeth). Once the hole burns completely through enamel, the bacteria can penetrate into the tooth's dentin and then eat/consume the tooth itself. This is tooth decay. Don't leave carbohydrates left on your teeth after eating!
Acid producing bacteria live in our mouths. Some of us have higher levels of acid producing bacteria. These are the bacteria that cause decay/cavities. They particularly like to eat fructose and sucrose. As they ferment these sugars they produce acid which attacks the teeth and eats them away, putting a hole in them (cavity/decay).
Decay is soft and mushy. In its severe form decay is so large that the crown of the tooth is completely destroyed by the bacteria. The good news is decay is preventable.
Initially enamel is broken down, followed by dentin. The decay may even get into the pulp containing the nerve.
It is extremely important to visit your dentist to evaluate if you have decay. Sometimes it can be visible to the naked eye. Other times, it requires taking x-rays.
Make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible!
Dental decay is the process of decalcification of the inorganic portions of the tooth. The process results from the metabolism of simple carbohydrates by oral microorganisms. 3 things are necessary for dental decay to form. [1] a susceptible tooth, [2] bacteria, [3] a simple fermentable carbohydrate. The bugs are very specific since they need to withstand an acidic environment. The streptococcus genus has several strains associated with tooth decay, but the strep mutans is the predominant culprit. Lactobacilli play a role but are not as involved. The initial formation of plaque development starts with a sticky pellicle that allows the bacteria to attach to the tooth. Then the bacteria can take hold. Get it all off twice a day and dental decay will never be a problem. Remember enamel is the hardest substance in the whole human body!
There are 3 main types of this disease: pit and fissure caries (in the grooves on the biting surfaces and several other surfaces of the teeth), smooth surface caries (on the surfaces of the teeth next to the tongue, next to the cheek and between the teeth) and root caries (also called geriatric caries, since frequently the roots are exposed in older age when the gums recede.) Each of these 3 types of caries is caused by different strains of bacteria. The well-known treatment is to remove the tooth decay and restore the tooth (a filling.) Dental research has resulted in the addition of 2 additional treatment modalities, prevention (diet, oral hygiene, fluoride, pit & fissure sealants, other) and re-calcification (reversal of early caries to normal tooth using chemicals.) Ongoing research is voluminous. There is a separate journal, "Caries," dedicated to this disease.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.