Tooth decay may start due to a lack of proper cleaning or sometimes also due to some kind of stomach disorder. If you have an abnormal acidic activity in your mouth, it may start damaging the enamel or outermost layer of your teeth. Sometimes smoking and caffeine also disturb the pH level, and you face problems.
Tooth decay starts simply, but it may turn into big problems. You can also start getting neighbouring teeth damaged if you don’t get the damaged tooth treated in time. A cavity or tooth decay, at times, makes it difficult for you to eat your regular meals or drink water at room temperature because of sensitivity. It happens when the cavity starts touching your nerves.
Reasons for Tooth Decay
Do you know what does a tooth decay looks like?
It may initially start as a discoloration, then the upper layer of the tooth starts corroding. And when the cavity goes deep and starts touching the root and nerves, you develop sensations against different foods.
Adopt healthy eating and follow proper cleaning rituals to keep your teeth healthy.
A number of factors can become a reason for your tooth decay. It can be due to excessive use of caffeine, smoking, and poor oral hygiene, which can also damage your teeth. If you take too much acidic or sugary food, it will also damage your teeth and your overall health.
If you don’t clean your teeth properly, food particles that are stuck in your mouth can react with the acid in your saliva and start damaging your teeth. The damage goes beyond repair if you don’t visit a dentist for the cure or treatment or follow their instructions.
Sometimes people get cavities even though they are brushing their teeth regularly. It is because if you choose the wrong toothbrush or paste and they don’t help clean your teeth thoroughly, you will face the consequences, such as tooth decay or cavities.
If you haven’t visited a good dentist this year, book yourself an appointment with us now.
What Does a Decayed Tooth Look Like?
Many people ask, what does a decayed tooth look like? The answer depends on how advanced the decay is.
In the early stage, you might notice:
- White or chalky spots on the tooth
As decay progresses:
- Brown or black spots
- Visible holes or pits
- Food is getting stuck in certain areas
In severe cases:
- Swelling around the tooth
- Pus or signs of infection
- Broken or weakened tooth structure
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Facts About Cavities You Should Know
Cavities are specific to age. Anyone at any age can get a cavity, as it is mainly due to improper cleaning, unhealthy food intake, or routine. If you are a chain smoker or take lots of sugary or acidic foods with caffeine, you are fulfilling all the reasons for your teeth to decay.
Tooth decay can become serious and would require complex dental procedures to treat. It costs time and money. If the decay is incurable, it may cause you to lose your teeth and require an implant.
Can Cavities Cause Health Problems and Make You Sick
Tooth decay can cause health problems like stomach disorders or may develop into a medical emergency. They may cause swelling, pain, and temperature. Since all our nerves are interconnected, we might get our vision affected or any other problem.
Tooth decay, if it gets worse, may become infectious and make you have a fever, bad breath, and difficulty eating and drinking. You may develop multiple health problems or medical conditions.
How to Avoid the Complications
- Use a floss also for cleaning to remove the stuck food particles.
- Clean your teeth twice daily with a good toothbrush and toothpaste.
- If you lose a tooth for some reason, get an implant as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
- Use a proper toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Visit a dentist twice a year.
- If you sense something is wrong, visit the dentist immediately.
- Avoid unhealthy habits and food.
- Reduce the intake of caffeine and don’t smoke.
- Drink plenty of water every day.
FAQs
What is the major cause of tooth decay?
The major cause of tooth decay is poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating habits. If you don’t clean your teeth properly, they start decaying and develop cavities. So it is better to adopt healthy habits to avoid such problems.
Can decaying teeth cause health problems?
Yes, they can. If an abscess starts draining in your mouth, the pus may reach your stomach and disturb digestion. You may get a fever, toothache, or sensitivity due to cavities.
Can a decaying tooth make you sick?
Yes, they definitely can if left untreated or not treated properly, you will have fever, pain, and may develop an infection. If there’s an abscess, it may drain into your stomach and cause a disorder.
How often should I see a dentist to catch tooth decay early?
You should visit a dentist regularly so that they can maintain a proper check. If you face any problem like bleeding gums, bad smell, toothache, or sensitivity, visit a dentist immediately.
Final Thoughts
There are many warning signs that may warn you of a potential cavity or tooth decay. You should take care of bleeding gums, bad smell, toothache, and tooth sensitivity. A cavity may start small but turn into a serious problem if not cured properly.
Develop a teeth cleaning habit every night before bed and after breakfast, so that no acidic chemical reactions destroy your dental health or let bad bacteria cause any decay.
Book proper dental examination appointments with professional dentists. They will inform you if you are cleaning your teeth properly or need to change your toothpaste or brushing protocols. A professional dentist may sense an irregularity beforehand and can guide you properly.
Montclair Dental Spa is always at your disposal to help you wear a clean, bright smile.