Understanding Tooth Decay (Cavities): Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment Options in Chennai | Srivari Dental Clinic

Tooth Decay (Cavities) Treatment in Chennai – Complete Guide

Have you ever bitten into something sweet or cold and felt a sudden twinge in your tooth? While this might not sound alarming initially, it can be a sign of the onset of tooth decay.

Tooth decay is a common problem that is faced across all age groups and genders. Despite it being extremely common in both adults and children, tooth decay is something that can be prevented, managed, and treated efficiently. With the help of an early diagnosis and timely treatment, you can easily prevent severe pain, infection, and tooth loss.

At Srivari Dental Clinic, we are determined to offer effective and tailor-made treatment plans for our patients. But before that, we want you to understand what tooth decay is, its causes, and treatment options in detail, so you can be well-informed before stepping in for a treatment.

What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a common oral concern for both adults and children in India. They are also known as dental caries and usually occur due to damage to the tooth enamel (harder outer tooth surface) because of acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. It is one of the most common tooth concerns that affects all age groups. In fact, young children or toddlers are usually more affected because of their thinner enamel and the frequent exposure to milk or sugar snacks.

What happens in our mouth?

Tooth decay occurs due to the formation of plaque in our mouths. Every time we eat sugary or starchy food, the bacteria in our mouth feed on the leftover food particles. This results in the formation of a sticky layer known as plaque. Gradually, plaque produces acids that damage the tooth enamel and, in the long run, lead to cavities and tooth decay.

Causes of Tooth Decay

The first step towards preventing tooth decay is to understand and identify the major causes behind it. Here are some common tooth decay causes that you must be aware of:

• Snacking on Unhealthy Food Items

The habit of snacking on unhealthy food items, such as sweets, chocolates, soft drinks, and sticky snacks, gives a window to bacteria in the mouth to produce harmful acids.

• Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene, which can include irregular brushing, not brushing twice every day, and using incorrect brushing techniques, increases the risk of cavities.

• Persistently Dry Mouth

Due to dehydration, medications or underlying health conditions, the saliva in the mouth starts to dry up, eventually leading to the formation of cavities.

Did you know that saliva is responsible for neutralising the acids in our mouth and washing away food particles?

• Consuming Acidic Beverages

Acidic beverages such as packaged juice, energy drinks, and soft drinks are key factors in weakening the tooth enamel and making it more vulnerable to decay.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay grows gradually but not silently. There are signs and symptoms that might indicate tooth decay. Let’s take a look at some common tooth decay symptoms:

• Mild Pain

In the initial stage of tooth decay, you might observe mild to severe tooth pain that increases every time you chew.

• Tooth Sensitivity

A feeling of sensitivity in your tooth every time you drink hot or cold beverages or eat sweet food items are early signs of tooth decay.

• Bad Breath or Taste

Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste is also a symptom of tooth decay.

• Visible Spots and Pits

In many cases of tooth decay, there are visible, brown, black or white spots. Holes or pits are also common symptoms of tooth decay.

These symptoms do not necessarily mean tooth decay, but it is best advised not to ignore them. An early intervention can help prevent the need for extensive treatment in future.

How Tooth Decay is Diagnosed at Srivari Dental Clinic?

Tooth decay is not the same across all patients, and therefore, it is crucial to perform a thorough diagnosis before deciding on a treatment plan. At Srivari Dental Clinic, we perform diagnosis using modern techniques and advanced tools for precision. Here’s what you can expect during tooth decay diagnosis at our clinic:

• Visual Examinations

At the initial stage, your dentist will carefully perform a visual examination to inspect cavities, plaque formation, or discolouration.

• Imaging Tests

To detect any hidden decay, imaging tests, such as X-rays, are done. These tests help identify decay that might be hidden between teeth or beneath existing fillings.

Tooth Decay Diagnosis for Kids

At Srivari Dental Clinic, we give special attention during the diagnosis of tooth decay in kids. Special attention is provided because cavities in baby teeth can spread quickly if left untreated. Therefore, early cavity detection for kids is crucial.

To get a detailed guide for how are tooth decay decay diagnosed, how often should I get dental x-rays for cavities, and more such questions, you can book a consultation at our clinic.

Tooth Decay Treatment Options in Chennai

Since tooth decay is not the same in every patient, it is crucial to provide a custom-made treatment plan based on the age, gender, and severity of decay. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive cavities and tooth decay treatment options that include:

• Fluoride Treatment

A fluoride treatment is usually recommended at an early stage of decay. This treatment helps strengthen teeth and even reverse minor loss that prevents cavities from spreading. At our clinic we focus on GC (Japan) RECALDENT to prevent tooth decay. This is a unique and innovative technology that not only prevents tooth decay but also boosts natural oral defenses.

• Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are usually used to fill the gap after a decayed portion of the teeth is removed.

• Dental Crowns

In cases where tooth decay has become extensive, damaging a large portion of the tooth, dental crowns are used to restore the shape, strength, and function.

• Root Canal Treatment

In many cases of tooth decay, the inner pulp of the tooth gets damaged and infected. In such cases, a root canal treatment is effective. It helps remove infected tissue and seal the tooth to prevent any further damage.

• Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is usually performed in cases where other treatment options have failed, and if the decay is severe.

Tooth Decay in Children

Tooth decay in children has become a matter of concern for many parents. Since tooth decay in children starts silently, as they cannot observe the symptoms, the chances of decay spreading become higher. Additionally, due to frequent sugary snacks, bottle feeding at night, and poor brushing habits, children are at a higher risk of getting such damage done to their teeth.

As parents, the best you can do is to identify early symptoms, such as discolouration of the teeth or mild pain and seek medical assistance.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is highly common, but with preventive measures and a few changes in lifestyle, it can be prevented. Here are a few suggestions and practical tips for prevention of tooth decay:

• Maintain Oral Hygiene

This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth, and rinsing the mouth after every meal.

• Use Effective Products

Ensure to use effective products like fluoride toothpaste, and dentist-approved brushes with soft bristles.

• Control Your Diet

Avoid eating food items such as sugary snacks, cold or hot beverages, etc., that can pave the way for bacteria in your mouth to grow.

• Go for Regular Check-Ups

Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

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