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What is Tooth Decay? |
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Dental Decay
Lynne Heckert, DDS, JD
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Tooth decay is also called dental caries and it is a very common affliction. I have some interesting information about this problem and what can be done to prevent it. Basically, tooth decay is caused when certain bacteria accumulate on the teeth. (Usually this bacteria is strep mutans and the buildup of bacterial colonies is called plaque.) Decay producing bacteria thrive on sugars and their acidic metabolic byproducts are able to dissolve tooth structure. If decay is not removed it continues to destroy the tooth. If it reaches the center of the tooth where the tooth nerve lives, a dental abscess can result and a root canal or extraction will be needed. If a large amount of tooth structure is destroyed, a dental cap may be needed. Decay occurs in people of all ages, although it is most active in childhood and teens. Fortunately, there are things that can be done to prevent decay or minimize it. That is what this site is about. © 2005-2010 Lynne Heckert, DDS, JD All rights reserved. No portion of this or any DentalSmarts.com site may be used without express written permission. Please remember that dental information written by me on these sites is not all-inclusive and it may or may not apply to your situation and you need to call your own dentist. A dentist needs to see the tooth, take and x-ray, etc. to diagnose and treat. I cannot respond to email inquiries or phone calls. Thanks for visiting! |
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