Tooth decay should be avoided at all costs

Tooth decay in teeth is developed due to acid producing bacteria situated around the tooth. Once the bacteria have caused decay, the tooth will have virtually no fluoride in the enamel to ward of plaque. Fluoride is essential in diminishing decay but is useless if the decay has already begun.

Poor hygiene is one of the main causes of a build-up of tartar and plaque and in turn this maximises tooth decay. The process of decay affecting the tooth’s enamel is a gradual one. Once it has passed the initial stages, the decay process becomes much faster as the decay spreads to the pulp of the tooth where the nerves and blood supply are situated. Once the nerves are damaged and affected by the decay, the associated pain which results can be unbearable.

In many cases decay can take two to three years to enter the enamel, whereas it only takes six months for the decay to get to the pulp. Once the decay has entered the dentin, it can consume a considerable amount of the tooth in a matter of weeks.
It is therefore very important to maintain a regular oral hygiene and dental care programme to maximise the health of your teeth.