Tooth Decay Prevention

There are several factors involved in the development of tooth decay. Tooth decay often is initiated when the outer or visible surface of the tooth, called the enamel, becomes infected by bacteria and starts to breakdown. In some instances, the tooth’s inner dentinal layer ( below the enamel outer shell) can also become infected. This happens when the tooth has prolonged exposure to the destructive elements of fermentable carbohydrates, which can readily be found in such products as gummy bears, candies, ice-cream, chocolate, milk, juices and pop drinks, to name a few. When teeth and surrounding tissues are not adequately cleaned, sugary substances remain unhindered, letting bacteria accumulate and multiply to form dental plaque. Dental plaque, in turn, consumes food particles found in-between teeth and surrounding tooth surfaces in the mouth, forming damaging acids that leach the minerals from the tooth, to form holes and cavitations. If these cavities are left untreated, they will continue to grow deeper and may even cause an infection of the pulpal tissues of the tooth and surrounding bony supporting structures. This can lead to a dental emergency situation, whereby the tooth may need to have root canal therapy or even extraction treatment. Do not let it get to this. Contact our dental office here in Brampton, and see how we can help!

Is tooth decay and cavities the same thing?
Tooth decay and cavities are not exactly the same thing. Tooth decays lead to cavities resulting from harmful bacteria that remain inside the mouth in the form of plaque. Tooth decay is also known as caries.