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| FAQs - Tooth diseases | |
| Locating the source of a toothache can be quite difficult. Pointing to the tooth you think is giving the trouble may be completely misleading. Dental pain has the unfortunate habit of traveling from one place to another. An x-ray, often in conjunction with other tests, can help pinpoint the cause. | ||
| Questions | ||
| Answers | ||
| 1. What is Plaque? | ||
| Plaque is the accumulation of bacteria, microorganisms and their products which sticks to the tooth surfaces. Dental plaque is soft and easily removed by brushing and flossing the teeth. Accumulation of plaque can lead to gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontal disease, as well as tooth decay. | ||
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| 2. What is Calculus (Tartar)? | ||
| Calculus is dental plaque that has mineralized. Calculus can form when plaque is not removed from the tooth surfaces. This plaque becomes old and eventually forms into calculus. Calculus can form above or below the gum line The bacteria that sticks to calculus can cause gum disease (gingivitis) or periodontal disease. Calculus cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. A dental hygienist checks for calculus formation when you visit the dental office. It is removed with special instruments designed to adapt to the tooth surface affected without causing trauma to the soft gums. |
 Calculus on the lower front teeth |
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| 3. What is Gingivitis? | ||
| Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. Some common features associated with gingivitis are red and swollen gums, and the presence of bleeding while brushing and flossing. The cause of gingivitis is the bacteria in dental plaque. This disease is reversible with good oral hygiene practices. | ||
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| 4. What is a Cavity? | ||
| A cavity is the destruction of the tooth enamel, dentine, cementum and may involve the tooth pulp. | ||
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| 5. How does a Cavity Form? | ||
| The formation of a cavity is due to many factors. For example, the tooth itself plays a role (how strong it is); the mouths ability to cleanse itself (your flow of saliva); diet (frequency and selection of sugary foods); the bacteria in your mouth (good or bad); and the length of time the tooth is under attack by the bacteria in your mouth. | ||
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| 6. What is the first sign of cavity? | ||
| The first sign of a cavity forming may be a white spot, which in time may turn brown. If it is a white spot, low concentrations of fluoride applied frequently can arrest further development. At this point though, we would advice that you visit the dentist, before further breakdown of enamel. | ||
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| 7. What is Periodontal Disease? | ||
| Periodontal disease affects the periodontium (the supporting structures of the teeth). The cause of this disease is multifactorial, but the presence of bacteria in plaque certainly plays a major role. The supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. This can mean that part of the bone that supports the teeth or the ligaments that hold the teeth securely in place are destroyed. This disease process is generally not reversible and may require treatment from a dental professional specializing in periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can develop as a result of poor daily plaque control (e.g. brushing and flossing). |
Bleeding teeth are the first sign of periodontal disease (gum disease) |
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| However, not everyone with poor brushing and flossing techniques will develop this condition. It is wise to visit your dental hygienist or dentist regularly in order to detect early stages of the disease and to prevent further damage. | ||
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| 8. How does a tooth decay? How can I prevent it? | ||
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A substance known as plaque causes tooth decay. Plaque is a clear bacteria laden film, which develops on the teeth. The bacteria in plaque interact with the starches and sugars we eat and form an acid, which breaks down or de-mineralizes our teeth. As this process is going, on our saliva along with properties it has, acts to help re-mineralize teeth. When the demineralization process is faster than that of remineralization a cavity occurs. There are several things that can be done to slow down or totally prevent this breakdown process which leads to cavities. One of the most important contributors to decay are sugars, and eliminating or drastically reducing your intake of them will help greatly in preventing tooth decay. Proper brushing and flossing, and removal of the plaque will also help in preventing breakdown. Home fluoride rinses help aid in the remineralization process. Of course routine visits to your dentist are of importance not only in the early detection of cavities but professional cleanings and fluoride treatments are very important in maintaining a healthy happy mouth. The images on the right demonstrates the early stages of the gum disease process. |
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| 9. Do sugars cause tooth decay? | ||
| Tooth decay is the result of many factors, including heredity and the make-up and flow of saliva. Sugars and other carbohydrates such as starchy foods also play a part. Bacteria on the teeth (dental plaque) feed on carbohydrates and make acids. The acids then break down the tooth to form a cavity. Frequent snacks of foods that contain carbohydrates, especially those that stick to the teeth, may increase chances of decay. The use of fluoride and better dental care has led to a decline of tooth decay in recent years. Experts also advise a balanced diet and brushing teeth after meals and snacks. "Baby bottle mouth syndrome" is a significant cause of tooth decay in young children. Infants should not sleep with bottles filled with any carbohydrate-containing liquid. This includes milk, formula and fruit juice. | ||
