Dental caries

Tooth decay is most common of all disorders, is second only to colds. It usually occurs in children and young adults, ca affect anyone. This is very common cause of tooth loss in younger people.Bacteria are normally present in the mouth. The bacteria covert all foods especially sugar and starch into acids. Bacteria acid, food debris and saliva combine in the mouth to form a sticky substance called plaque that adheres to teeth. It is most prominent on the back molars, just above the gum line on all teeth, and at the edges of the seals. The plaque is not removed from the teeth mineralize into tartar. Plaque and tartar irritate the gums, resulting in gingivitis and ultimately. Plaque begins to accumulate on teeth within 20 minutes after eating the time when most bacterial activity. If plaque is not removed thoroughly and routinely, tooth decay will not only begin, but flourish.The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the tooth and create holes in the tooth cavities. Cavities are usually painless until they grow very large and affect nerves or cause a tooth fracture. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can develop. Tooth decay is also destroys the internal structures of the tooth pulp and ultimately causes tooth loss.There is also an exponential increase in risk of developing caries among patients who take multiple medications that predispose to xerostomia.Carbohydrates such as sugars and starches increase the risk tooth decay. Sticky foods are more harmful than nonstick, because they remain on the surface of teeth. Frequent snacking increases the time that the acids are in contact with the tooth surface.

By Andrea N