Tooth Decay Detection in London

Do you have dental decay? You might without even knowing about it! The problem with decay is that it can go unnoticed for quite some time. Even though you might not feel any pain, your tooth could still be getting damaged and the longer you leave it, the more difficult it can be to fix quickly.

At Camden High Street Dental Practice, our dentists aim to help all patients by identifying the exact cause for tooth decay and trying to solve it as soon as possible. If the cavities are small, they can be treated easily at an affordable price and you will be at less risk of developing severe dental pain. Tooth decay can be detected by using powerful lighting and a higher magnification to identify the problem easily and prevent any more damage. Early tooth decay will not usually show any signs and symptoms even though your tooth may appear healthy. But the dentist can see from an X-ray if you have any decay below the enamel, any infections in the root or any bone loss around the tooth.

To keep your mouth in god shape we recommend you come in for regular hygiene appointments and dental check ups. Call us today to book your appointment.

Causes of tooth decay and dental cavities

The causes of tooth decay include poor oral health and sugary foods and beverages. The more sugar you consume, the more acid will be produced in your mouth that can cause decay and cavities. When sugar is combined with plaque and weakened tooth enamel, you will be more susceptible to tooth decay. Every time you eat sugary snacks, your teeth are exposed to further damage from acid for 20 minutes. It is extremely important that you know the proper way to care for your teeth and oral health. Some factors that contribute to tooth decay and cavities include:

• Poor dental hygiene – If you do not brush teeth regularly, plaque can build up, that may attack the tooth enamel.
• Formation of plaque – Plaque is usually the result of acid, bacteria, food particles and saliva in the mouth. This plaque will remain on the teeth and accumulate over time. The acid in the plaque may attack tooth enamel and ultimately can cause holes in the teeth, otherwise called cavities. That is why it is important to brush twice a day.
• Dry mouth – Saliva helps wash away plaque from the teeth. If you have dry mouth with less saliva, then the plaque can accumulate more quickly.
• Eating and drinking - Both eating and drinking has an important role in the formation of tooth cavities. When you eat or drink, carbohydrates stay on the teeth until you brush them properly. Even after you have brushed, you may not have got rid of all food particles from the teeth. Certain foods that stick to your teeth can increase the risk of tooth cavities. Make sure you brush your teeth regularly, particularly after you eat dry cereals, fruits, caramel, sugary cereals, cookies, hard candy, breath mints, toffee, caramel or after you drink milk or soda.
• Acid and bacteria – Bacteria and acid are always present in our mouth. When bacteria digest carbohydrates that linger in the mouth and teeth, acid will form.
• Medical problems –There are other medical conditions and treatments that can make you more susceptible to tooth decay.

Treatment options for dental decay

You need to talk to your dentist about any uncomfortable symptoms you have, such as tooth pain or sensitivity. Your dental surgeons identify tooth decay after conducting an oral examination. However, there are certain cavities that can not be seen on oral assessment and it may be necessary to use a dental X-ray to identify some decay.

The treatment options will depend on the severity of the condition; there are several ways to treat a cavity.

Tooth fillings

The dentist may use a drill to remove decayed material from a tooth. He will then fill your tooth by using a substance such as gold, composite resin or silver.

Dental crowns

If you have severe tooth decay, your dentist could place a customised cap over the tooth to replace the natural dental crown. He will then remove decayed tooth material before starting the treatment.

Root canal

Your dentist will perform a root canal procedure to save your tooth when decay causes death of the nerves. He will remove blood vessel tissues, nerve tissue and decayed areas of the tooth. After this, he will be checking for infections and applying medication to the roots, when needed. Finally, he will fill the tooth and place a crown on it.

FAQs on tooth decay

How do I know if I have decayed tooth?

At the point that the decay gets larger, there may be signs and symptoms that include:

• Toothache or constant pain that occurs without any obvious cause
• Tooth sensitivity
• Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold or sweet
• Visible pits or holes in the teeth

What happens when I get tooth decay?

Tooth decay may occur if the acid is produced from plaque buildup on your teeth. If plaque is allowed to accumulate, then this may lead to further problems such as dental caries, dental abscesses that are the collection of pus in the gums or at the end of teeth or gum disease.

How can I stop tooth decay after it has already started?

You will have to brush teeth at least two times in a day by using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you brush after each meal and before going to bed. Don’t forget to clean in between the teeth daily with inter dental cleaners or dental floss.

What will happen if I delay treatment of my tooth decay?

A tooth cavity may lead to several complications if it is not treated. These may include development of a tooth abscess or ongoing toothache that may get infected and in the worst case can even lead to life-threatening complications like sepsis, if infection enters the bloodstream.