General Dentistry

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the breakdown of tooth structure caused by acids produced by bacteria.

High Tooth Decay Risk

A patient with a high tooth decay risk is defined as someone with two or more areas of active decay and numerous fillings.

Bacteria Types

While many types of bacteria contribute to tooth decay, the major bacteria found in patients with high decay levels is Streptococcus mutans.

Diet

Since bacteria feed on sugars, diet plays a significant role in tooth decay development.

Hygiene

Decay-causing bacteria thrive around teeth and gums. Reducing plaque and bacteria by cleaning thoroughly twice daily helps prevent decay. For example, brushing without flossing leaves areas between teeth vulnerable to decay.

Tooth Susceptibility

Bacteria colonies establish themselves in our mouths during the first four years of life. These bacteria flourish during periods of decay and can reduce when oral health improves. Patients with high bad bacteria levels need to actively work to reduce them.

Preventing Decay and Reducing Future Risk

• Brush and floss twice daily.
• Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
• Maintain a dental-friendly diet low in sugars and acids.
• Participate in decay management programs—speak to us if you have two or more areas of decay within six months.

Prevention

Prevention is a team effort between the patient, dentist, and dental staff, aiming to preserve natural teeth and supporting structures by preventing dental diseases and conditions.

Good oral hygiene and a balanced diet start at home, complemented by regular dental exams, professional cleans, and x-rays. Treatments such as sealants and fluoride help protect teeth further.

Prevention avoids serious and costly dental problems, helping you maintain a healthy, confident, and beautiful smile.

Periodontal Disease

Definition: "Periodontal" means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth.

Plaque—a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva—if not removed, hardens into calculus (tartar). Plaque and calculus cause destruction of gums and bone.

Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Though four out of five people have periodontal disease, many are unaware since early stages are often painless.

This disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and may be linked to systemic conditions such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased miscarriage risk during pregnancy. Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes increase the risk as well.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits help reduce your risk.

Signs and Symptoms

• Bleeding gums: Gums should never bleed even during brushing or flossing.
• Loose teeth: Caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers.
• New spacing between teeth: Result of bone loss.
• Persistent bad breath: Caused by bacteria buildup.
• Pus around teeth and gums: Sign of infection.
• Receding gums: Gum loss around teeth.
• Red and puffy gums: Indicative of inflammation.
• Tenderness or discomfort: Caused by plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritation.

Restoration

Thanks to fluorides and increased awareness, tooth decay rates have decreased significantly. However, teeth can still suffer decay, infection, and breakage and sometimes require restorative treatments.

Modern techniques and technology offer numerous options to restore your teeth to their natural shape, appearance, and function. We will always discuss available options and recommend the most comfortable, least invasive treatment for you.

Reasons for Restorative Dentistry

• Enhance your smile.
• Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth.
• Improve or correct an improper bite.
• Prevent tooth loss.
• Relieve dental pain.
• Repair damaged and decayed teeth.
• Replace missing teeth.
• Update old, unattractive dental treatments.
• Restore normal eating and chewing function.

Remember to give your teeth the attention they need today!