Tooth decay
Tooth decay (cavities) is damage to the teeth caused by acid made by bacteria in plaque when we eat sugar and sweet foods. It starts as white or brown spots and can make holes, pain and infection. It is very common in children and adults. Decay is almost completely preventable with brushing, fluoride and less sugar.
Symptoms
- White, brown or black spots on the teeth
- Holes or pits in the teeth
- Pain or sensitivity with sweet, hot or cold food and drinks
- Toothache, especially when biting
- Bad breath or a bad taste
- Swelling of the gum or face if the tooth becomes infected (abscess)
Causes
- Eating or drinking sugar often, such as sweets, biscuits, sugary tea and soft drinks
- Not brushing teeth regularly
- Not using fluoride toothpaste
- Giving babies sweet drinks in a bottle, or bottle at night
- Dry mouth, smoking or naswar
Prevention
- Brush teeth twice a day, especially before sleep, with fluoride toothpaste
- Cut down on sweets and sugary drinks, and keep them to mealtimes
- Do not put babies to sleep with a bottle of milk or sweet drink
- Help children brush until about age 7
- Visit a dentist for a check-up at least once a year
Treatment
- Early white spots can harden again with fluoride toothpaste and varnish
- Cavities need a filling by a dentist
- Root canal treatment for a deep decay reaching the nerve
- Removal of the tooth when it cannot be saved
- Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen while waiting to see the dentist
- Antibiotics only when a dentist or doctor prescribes them for infection; they do not fix the tooth
Common questions
Do baby teeth need care if they fall out anyway?
Yes. Decay in baby teeth causes pain and infection, affects eating and sleep, and can damage the adult teeth growing underneath.
Is a miswak as good as a toothbrush?
A miswak used correctly can clean teeth, but it does not give fluoride. Using a toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day gives the best protection against decay.