Tooth decay is one of the most common diseases in dentistry. Since a visit to the dental office is not the most pleasant activity, many postpone this procedure until the last. But, nevertheless, at least once a year you need to visit the dentist so that your teeth are healthy.
Tooth decay leads to the destruction of the hard tissues of the tooth, that is, enamel and dentin. First, damage forms, and then a hole appears in the tooth. At this stage, the tooth can still be filled, but if you postpone the procedure in a long box, you can completely lose it.
The main causes of dental caries are:
- inadequate oral care (namely, improper and irregular brushing of teeth);
- stressful situations;
- weakened general immunity of the body;
- inadequate nutrition (abuse of sweets, lack of vitamins);
- hormonal changes;
- pregnancy;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- low fluoride and calcium.
Caries, the symptoms of which are almost invisible at first glance, develops gradually under the influence of external and internal factors. It is not worth hoping that tooth decay will disappear after tooth filling . Even after this procedure, you should visit your dentist regularly.
As for external factors, they also affect the appearance of caries. These include the geographical factor, nutrition and social environment. In many respects, caries depends on the geographical location, namely on air temperature, the nature of precipitation, the content of trace elements in water, and the like.
Of great importance for maintaining the body in good shape is nutrition, it is no less significant for the prevention of dental caries. Natural food, in particular vegetables and fruits, as well as the correct distribution of fats, proteins and carbohydrates in the diet ensures the body's resistance to the development of the disease.
Often, the prevalence of caries is affected by the working conditions of a person. People working in the production of alkalis and acids, with waste products, as well as in the confectionery industry are more prone to caries.
According to experts, dental caries often develops in women than in men, due to a number of circumstances. Firstly, during pregnancy, hormonal changes occur. Secondly, women consume more sweet and flour products.
There are several types of dental caries, depending on the complexity of the disease. Initial tooth decay, the symptoms of which are manifested only by a small gray spot on the surface of the enamel, does not cause complaints and can only be diagnosed with the help of special tools.
Superficial caries leads to a slight defect in the enamel and, as a result, tooth sensitivity to acidic and sweet foods appears. It manifests itself in the form of an extensive spot.
Middle tooth decay is also almost asymptomatic, but sometimes it can cause not lasting pain with temperature and mechanical irritants. Microorganisms at this stage damage the enamel and dentin, and lead to the appearance of a cavity, the so-called "hollow".
Deep caries is one of the most dangerous types. With its formation, an extensive carious cavity appears, which is filled with softened dentin. Extensive tooth decay, acute pain when exposed to stimuli, and subsequently there may be complete tooth loss.
A special group is multiple caries. It affects several teeth at once and appears due to severe forms of infectious diseases. Its spread can lead to the loss of the entire dentition.
Poor tooth filling can cause tooth decay under the filling. Its development causes severe inflammatory processes. It is necessary to consult a doctor again if after filling you started to have pain and there were unpleasant sensations in the cured tooth.