What is caries?
Tooth decay is a degenerative disease of dental hard tissues (enamel and dentin) that originates from the surface and grows deep into the tooth pulp. Caries does not give major symptoms until the advanced stage, when the tooth begins to hurt.
It is prevention that is the first treatment for caries.
Caries arises from the disruption of the balance of the bacterial flora normally present in the mouth. The bacteria in plaque use sugars from food to survive and at the same time produce acidic waste substances, which are capable of causing injury to tooth enamel. If plaque is not carefully removed, these lesions, initially reversible, can evolve to generate a cavity in the tooth.
Cause
Bacteria present in the mouth.
Sugars.
Genetic predisposition.
Care
Fillings.
Inlays on permanent teeth.
Conscious sedation with courage mask
Treating tooth decay painlessly.
Treatment Duration:
Each session takes about 20 minutes
Prevention
Sealing.
Hygiene sessions.
The symptoms of tooth decay
Usually caries does not cause symptoms and can only be diagnosed during a checkup.
Symptoms begin to appear in the advanced stage, when caries reaches the pulp, causing structural destruction of a portion of the tooth.
Symptoms may be:
pulsating, sharp pain;
pain on chewing;
pain caused upon eating sweet, very hot or very cold foods.
Sometimes, it is possible to notice for oneself the signs of caries on the teeth, especially on the front teeth, which are more accessible and easy to see, such as: holes, brown or black spots.
The causes of caries
A number of factors must coexist for caries to develop:
presence of bacteria capable of producing acids that alter tooth structure;
availability of sugars in the diet that promote bacterial growth and adhesion;
genetic factors that erode tooth strength and promote bacterial growth;
tooth quality;
the shape of the tooth and arch;
the characteristics of saliva.
