Tooth Decay: A Problem We All Face

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health concerns today. Oral and dental health should be an essential part of daily routines. To maintain healthy teeth at any age, brushing twice a day and using products such as mouthwash and dental floss are crucial. When daily oral hygiene is neglected, tooth decay and gum diseases can develop.

Tooth decay has various causes, which may differ depending on age. It is a condition that can progress rapidly. If left untreated, decay can lead to tooth loss and may negatively affect overall health. For this reason, oral care habits should be developed to minimize dental problems throughout life.

How Does Tooth Decay Occur?

Tooth decay is one of the leading issues in oral health. It can develop due to multiple factors. Decay is caused by plaque-forming bacteria known as cariogenic bacteria. These bacteria ferment carbohydrates, producing organic acids. These acids break down the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth.

Tooth decay is considered an infectious disease that occurs due to the demineralization of the tooth structure.

What Are the Causes of Tooth Decay?

The causes of decay vary, with genetics being one of the leading factors. Examining family dental history is important. If family members have a history of weak tooth structure, extra attention should be given to oral hygiene.

Other contributing factors include:

1. Crowded or misaligned teeth
2. Structural characteristics of teeth
3. Issues during tooth development
4. Excessive plaque accumulation

Plaque formation is one of the most common causes of decay and is more likely to occur in areas where food accumulates. Plaque also contains bacteria that harm the gums. If not cleaned properly, plaque can harden into tartar. Decay caused by plaque is especially common on molars. Using dental floss daily is highly effective in preventing plaque buildup.

Food debris left between teeth promotes bacterial growth and increases the likelihood of decay. Therefore, brushing after meals and before bedtime, along with daily flossing, is essential.

Treatment Methods for Tooth Decay

There are several treatment options for tooth decay. The most common is dental fillings, which come in various types:

1. Amalgam fillings: Used to fill cavities in decayed or weakened areas.
2. Compomer and composite fillings: Applied when decay has progressed; the tooth is cleaned, treated with protective materials, and filled with a tooth-colored composite material.
3. Glass ionomer fillings: Bond to tooth structure and release fluoride, helping prevent future decay.

Tooth Decay in Children

Tooth decay is very common among children and can occur on baby teeth. Therefore, children should be taught proper brushing habits from an early age using age-appropriate toothbrushes and toothpaste. Brushing at least twice a day is essential.

There are several preventive treatments for children, including:

1. Fluoride application: Helps reduce sensitivity and prevents decay.
2. Fissure sealants: Applied to chewing surfaces to prevent food accumulation and decay.

For advanced decay, fillings may be required. In cases of severe decay causing significant pain, baby teeth may sometimes need root canal treatment.

If a baby tooth is lost prematurely—often due to decay—a space maintainer may be used to preserve proper tooth alignment until the permanent tooth erupts.

Dt. İsmail Özkısaoğlu

Dentist