Dental decay can be a serious condition which occurs when the dentine and enamel of the tooth becomes softened (due to acid attack) and this causes holes and cavities in the tooth to form which can result in the root of the tooth becoming exposed.

Plaque can cause tooth decay

Dental decay is primarily cause by plaque, which is a type of bacteria that produces acids as a byproduct that stick to tooth enamel and dentine and slowly erodes the surfaces away, and if not treated in time this can cause holes to form in the tooth.  Enamel is the hardest part of the body and does not contain any blood vessels and is not sensitive to pain, but it cannot stand up to sustained attack from acid erosion.  The inner core of the tooth is made up of dentine, which protects the central pulp containing the blood vessels and nerves, and this is sensitive to pain.

Plaque bacteria produce acid when they come into contact with the sugars found in food and drink, so every time you eat or drink anything sugary these acids start attacking your teeth.  Acids found naturally in foods can also attack your teeth dissolving enamel.  Saliva contains natural neutralizes against these acids, and over time will ‘remineralise’ your teeth, causing the enamel to harden again, but this can take a few hours and if you regularly eat a lot of sugary or acidic food then your teeth never have time to recover and the enamel erosion can become permanent.

When you go for your regular dental check up your dentist or hygienist will check for early signs of tooth decay, and this can help prevent the need for expensive and painful dental treatment as small cavities are much easier to treat and can often be prevented from growing any larger with simple fillings and changes to diet and dental hygiene.

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