If you want to maintain healthy teeth, you will have to practice good oral and dental care at all times. Common oral problems such as bad breath, sores, tooth decay, and gum disease can be treated if they are caught in good time. Dental caries, also known as tooth decay happens to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults today. Here is what you need to know about caries and the treatment options that a Dentist in Knoxville TN will offer you.
What is dental caries?
Caries is a Latin word which when translated means rot. It is the continued erosion that occurs on the surface of the teeth as a result of the combined action of bacteria, plaque, and acids. Dental caries or cavities are normally painless at first; however, as the erosion continues, the problem spreads to the root of the tooth, and this could lead to the formation of very painful and potentially dangerous abscesses.
Causes of dental caries
Like most oral health complications, dental caries is caused mainly by poor eating habits and poor dental hygiene. There are certain things that increase the risk of cavity development.
* Eating too much sugary or starchy food
* Failure to brush one’s teeth at least twice per day
* Drinking too much alcohol
How caries develops
When we eat food and fail to brush properly, plaque forms in the mouth and coat the teeth. This is acted on by bacteria, and it turns into acid. This acid eats away at the tooth enamel. The first signs of caries include tooth sensitivity especially when subjected to hot or cold drinks. If the erosion continues, the acid starts affecting the dentin. This is what is technically known as cavities. If the erosion gets to the pulp cavity, the bacteria cause infections leading to the formation of painful abscesses.
Treatment
It all depends on the extent of the caries. If the problem only affects the enamel, filings will be enough. On the other hand, if it goes to the pulp cavity, a dentist in Knoxville will have to perform a root canal and get you crowns.
Tennessee Valley dental is one of the best medical health care providers in the state. They offer checkups, treatment and advice. Go to Domain for more information.
