Decay is an infectious disease caused by bacteria. When they build up in one place (particularly between the teeth, under old fillings or poorly fitting crowns), they become aggressive and demineralise your tooth.
Decay does not only affect living teeth, and so it is not always painful. By the time it hurts (raging toothache), it is too late: the tooth has to be root-treated and crowned.
The signs of the disease
The early stage
The signs are not always visible, but the risk is very real.
First visible signs
- The gums are red and bleed.
- Food deposits visible to the naked eye and the presence of bacteria.
- The first white spots of demineralisation on the surface of the enamel.
How the disease progresses
Decay can spread considerably and eventually reach the nerve of the tooth.
What makes it worse
Food deposits and dietary sugars encourage bacteria to multiply.
Factors that encourage the disease
- Saliva that is not effective enough at fighting bacteria
- Fragile enamel
- The anatomy of the teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Poorly fitting crowns
- A lack of fluoride
- Orthodontic appliances
Factors that aggravate the disease
- Eating habits
- General health
- Taking certain medicines
- Pregnancy
Prevention rests on thorough hygiene, a diet low in sugar and regular visits to your dentist so that decay is caught early.
