Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common dental problem affecting young and old alike. Because of its prevalence, many people wrongfully think of it as normal, something everyone must go through at least once in his/her lifetime.

This is totally wrong. Tooth decay is a serious dental issue which, when left untreated, can lead to even more serious dental problems. In fact, it is the leading cause of tooth loss, closely followed by periodontal disease.

At Caringbah Dental Care, we have comprehensive tooth decay treatments and personalized oral hygiene programs that emphasise prevention. Read on to learn more.

Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria in the mouth, target and destroy your tooth’s enamel leading to decay. There are a number of things which lead to this type of bacteria thriving in your mouth, including:

1 Poor dental hygiene

Rotten food residue, particularly that from sweet goodies, creates an ideal environment for this bacteria to thrive. The practice of good oral hygiene such as brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with mouthwash, are some of the practices that counteract the development of this bacteria.

2 Unhealthy diet

Foods high in sugar and carbohydrates are favourites of this type of bacteria. Residue are converted to acid by the bacteria, which then attacks your tooth’s enamel.

3 Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that deteriorates body systems as it progresses. Damaged oral health can be included in its havoc.

4 Dry mouth

Your mouth needs to have an ample supply of saliva to maintain its balance. Saliva has many functions including protection against tooth decay. Xerostomia or dry mouth is the condition wherein saliva supply is not enough to meet your needs. When this happens, tooth decay is possible.

5 Smoking

Smoking has been proven to be harmful to your health, your oral health included. Staining, bad breath, periodontal disease, and tooth decay are some of the favorites effects of smoking.

Signs Of Tooth Decay

The following are the accompanying symptoms of tooth decay:

• A toothache
• Holes or pits in the teeth
• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks
• Discoloured teeth
• Bad breath
• Bitter taste in the mouth

Fighting Tooth Decay At Caringbah Dental Care

At Caringbah Dental Care , we put great emphasis on our preventive dentistry services. We encourage our patients to schedule regular dental check-ups so we can keep tabs on their oral health status. We also offer dental cleaning, dental sealants, and oral hygiene instructions for our patients.

Fighting tooth decay depends on the severity of your condition. If the decay is still in its early stage, your dentist can put dental sealants to prevent its development. Dental fillings, inlays and onlays, and dental crowns are also other options.

For severe tooth decay with damage to the pulp, a root canal treatment is recommended. Rest assured that we will do everything to avoid extraction.

Fight Decay At Caringbah Dental Care

If you have any of the abovementioned symptoms, talk to us immediately. Schedule your regular dental visits with us for a decay-free smile.

NO GAP CHILDREN

No gap treatment for all preventive treatments (exam, fluoride and fissure seals) for all children under 16 years covered by health funds with extra/ancillary covers (excludes fillings, extractions and major dental treatments).

Call (02) 9524 7047 or visit us at Shop 3 10-20 MacKay Street in Caringbah.