rotten teeth Archives - Healthhype

Dental Cavities, Tooth Decay Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Dr. Alison — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 20:50:14 +0000

Preventing a tooth cavity involves a combination of understanding the possible risk factors and avoiding it in conjunction with undertaking the necessary preventative measures. Early treatment of tooth decay can often prevent the formation of cavities. Causes and Risk Factors Foods and Dietary Habits Diet rich in carbohydrates (sugar and starch). This may be related to poor dietary habits or sugar cravings (sweet tooth) which may be more common in states like pregnancy. Acidic foods and drinks, such as cola. In addition, regular cola is high in sugar. Prolonged contact of teeth with milk or fruit juice, as with babies put to sleep with a bottle of milk or fruit juice in their mouth. Mouth and Teeth Problems Presence of acid-producing bacteria in the mouth. Streptococcus mutans is the most common bacteria causing tooth decay and cavities. Decay-causing bacteria may be passed by parents to their children through kissing or sharing eating utensils. Defect in the tooth surface – uneven surfaces, pits and fissures encourage accumulation of plaque. Molars and premolars (the back teeth) are more prone to cavities as a result of more pits and grooves which help to retain food particles and also because they are less accessible [...]

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What is a Tooth Cavity? Symptoms and Process of Dental Caries

Dr. Alison — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 19:44:59 +0000

A tooth cavity is a decayed area in the tooth, forming a hole in the enamel (outer hard surface of the tooth), which gradually proceeds inwards. It is caused by gradual erosion of the tooth and if left untreated for a long period, it can involve the dentin layer of the tooth as well and may finally reach the pulp cavity. A cavity in the tooth may cause severe toothache and could ultimately lead to loss of the tooth. The formation of cavities, or dental caries, caused by tooth decay is one of the most common tooth disorders that occur not only in children but in people of all ages. Cavities take a long time to form – often months or years – so the aim should be to detect and arrest tooth decay and prevent cavity formation in the very early stage. Structure of a Tooth A tooth is divided into 3 parts : Crown is the part of the tooth that protrudes out of the gum and is visible. Neck is the part of the tooth at the gum line, between the crown and the root. Root is the part of the tooth that lies inside the gum. [...]

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Chipped Tooth and Broken Teeth Home Care, Treatment, Prevention

Dr. Chris — Tue, 26 May 2015 22:44:29 +0000

As strong as teeth are, it is by no means indestructible. A cracked, chipped or even broken tooth are common dental injuries. These type of injuries are not always considered to be a dental emergency and it may not be necessary to have the tooth extracted. It depends on the severity of the injury and the promptness of treatment. Even without the attention of a dental professional, you can temporarily manage a chipped, cracked or broken tooth until you can seek dental treatment. Causes of Chipped Teeth The outer surface of the tooth is known as the enamel. It is a very hard substance, even harder than bones. Beneath it lies the softer dentin portion. In the middle is the area known as the pulp. It contains the nerve endings and blood vessels that provide sensation and nutrition to the tooth. Often injuries and diseases of the tooth are ignored until it reaches the deeper tissue like the pulp where it elicits pain. Although the enamel can withstand wear and tear for long periods of time, eventually it can weaken and the teeth may be prone to cracking, chipping or breaking. This may happen by: Biting a hard object/food Falling [...]

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Dental Caries (Teeth Cavities) Cause Toothache and Jaw Pain

Dr. Chris — Wed, 06 May 2009 00:14:30 +0000

Dental caries (tooth/teeth cavities) afflicts most of us at some point in life and is the second most common condition in humans after the common cold and flu. If left untreated it can progress to the point where it results in unbearable pain. Depending on the extent of the damage to the tooth, the tooth may have to be removed (extracted) by a dental professional. What is a tooth cavity? A tooth cavity is the gradual breakdown of the tooth structure due to microbial growth. Erosion of the outer lining of the tooth (enamel) is followed by the destruction of the inner layer (dentin). It can occur with a crack in the enamel that is left untreated but poor dental hygiene is one of the main causes. How do cavities form in the tooth? A tooth cavity occurs as a result of a combination of factors. Food particles get trapped on and between the teeth after eating. Along with mucus, dead epithelial cells (from the mouth lining) and bacteria, a thin soft film, known as plaque coats the teeth. This provides the ideal medium for oral bacteria to feed upon food debris. Bacteria like Mutans streptococci and related groups, break down food [...]

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