Many of us are no strangers to sugar. It is everywhere–in our coffee, our snacks, and even our salads. While sugar may taste delicious, it can wreak havoc on our oral health. Of course, many people are aware that sugar is not great for us. However, not many people know how sugar can fuel tooth decay. When sugar interacts with oral bacteria, it kickstarts a destructive process that spells trouble for our teeth.
The Decay Dynamics: A Closer Look
When we eat sugary treats, oral bacteria metabolize the sugars. As a result, it creates acids that attack the enamel—the protective shield of our teeth. With repeated exposure to sugar, these acid assaults weaken the enamel. Furthermore, this creates an environment ripe for tooth decay.
Plaque and Cavities
As enamel erosion progresses, it paves the way for the formation of plaque. This is a sticky biofilm teeming with harmful bacteria. Plaque not only harbors acids and sugars against tooth surfaces but also fosters bacterial growth. As a result, this speeds up the decay process.
Over time, the combined effects of acid erosion and plaque buildup create cavities. Essentially, this is structural damage to teeth that needs intervention to restore the tooth. Left untreated, cavities can deepen, leading to pain, infection, and potential tooth loss.
Treatment Options for Tooth Decay
When tooth decay has already taken root, prompt intervention is essential to halt its progression and restore dental health. Treatment options for tooth decay may include:
Fillings: We use dental fillings to repair cavities by removing decayed tooth material. Once we remove the decay, we have to clean the area thoroughly. This helps us make sure there is no remaining bacteria in your tooth. Then, we fill the space with a durable filling material, such as composite resin or amalgam. As a result, you should have a quick and easy solution to tooth decay.
Crowns: For more extensive decay or damage, you may need a dental crown to restore the shape, function, and strength of the affected tooth. These protective caps sit over your tooth to prevent further decay. Additionally, a crown can fix many cosmetic and structural issues with your tooth. With the right material, a dental crown can seamlessly blend with your smile.
Root Canal Therapy: When decay extends to the inner pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue. However, this process should reduce your pain while also preserving your tooth. Root canals have a bad reputation when it comes to pain. While you may be sore after a root canal, you are more likely to feel relief rather than intense pain.
Extraction: In cases of severe decay or irreparable damage, tooth extraction may be the only viable option to prevent further complications and preserve overall oral health. While removing a tooth is typically the last option, sometimes it is necessary to protect your oral health.