Today we talk about an unfunny topic: tooth decay, which we all know. It stings and itches and, finally, we feel a literally hallucinatory pain. A word, a pain, a completely avoidable condition that keeps us awake at night and leads us to vow to brush our teeth better so that it can never happen again. And, eventually, voila, a new cavity.
Tooth decay - cure instead of "drill"
But can it be avoided? Could it be that the predisposition to cavities is in my DNA? So is it my parents' fault?
Let's talk about this with Dr. Alberto Fanelli. Some of you may know him from our article on vegan nutrition. If you don't know him, check him out.
As we could already know: the origin of every dental ailment is plaque. You can read everything you need to know about plaque here.
But back to tooth decay: the enemy that swells our little cheeks mercilessly.
Nora: Dr. Fanelli, how does tooth decay form?
Dr. Alberto Fanelli: The Streptococcus Mutans bacterium present in plaque feeds from the carbohydrates on the tooth i.e., sugars from our food, which in turn are converted into acids and make the enamel porous, facilitating the intrusion of harmful microorganisms. Essentially, the tooth is destroyed from the inside.
Dr. Alberto Fanelli
Specializing in Endodontics, Conservative and Prosthodontics
Not a very glamorous image, in short.
In fact, this process needs to be stopped right away. The most important weapon is the toothbrush. But people with crooked teeth or lots of gaps risk not being able to get rid of plaque by simply brushing their teeth, because they cannot reach the blind spots. Thus, plaque has more time to spread and produce more acid. In such a case, canaliculi can form - here is caries.
How do you recognize tooth decay?
There are multiple types or stages of the condition. When you think you have identified a cavity, consult a dentist immediately. The best way to recognize cavities, however, is a semi-annual visit to your dentist since no one checks your teeth as thoroughly as we do. For a self-diagnosis, take into account the following symptoms:
Initial caries: The enamel is already demineralized at the affected parts of the tooth. That is, white, transparent or brown spots are seen. In such a case, the damage is not yet so severe and reversible. Do not hesitate to make a call to your dentist.
Dentin caries: The enamel shows obvious traces i.e., brown spots.
Deep cavities: Bacteria have already penetrated the enamel and reached the dentin. Pain begins. The tooth shows dark grooves. Bad breath may also be a symptom.
Dental pulp cavities: Bacteria have reached the dental pulp resulting in extreme pains, especially with parallel inflammation of the root canal. So as to avoid further complications, we reiterate to consult a dentist immediately.
Can I stop tooth decay?
With luck, initial caries can be curbed with fluoride and through proper oral hygiene. Damage on enamel can be removed with a fluoride varnish.
How do you treat tooth decay?
The caries must be removed using a turbine, then we seal the tooth by a filling. If we are faced with a deeper caries, things get more complicated, like when devitalization or a prosthesis is needed. In the worst case scenario we lose the tooth.
How can I prevent tooth decay?
Our saliva is the most important ally in the battle against tooth decay. It contains minerals that mineralize enamel and neutralize acids in the mouth. However, this cannot happen if we continue to gulp or drink sugary drinks. We should not eat between meals, but rather drink plenty of water. Also keep in mind not to brush your teeth until 30 minutes have passed after your last meal. Otherwise you will go to remove enamel temporarily weakened by acids.
Can we use our promis gel as a cavity prevention?
According to a study, promis gel curbs the formation of Streptococcus Mutans, the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, byup to 70 percent. Thus, the risk is greatly decreased. In addition, promis gel is a perfect option for unmotivated people or those with crooked teeth, fissures or blind spots.
Against plaque, tartar and tooth decay
Here's what we learned ...
The secret formula against cavities is simple: a balanced diet, low sugar, good oral hygiene, fluoride-rich toothpaste (find the promis paste), and drinking plenty of water. And one last weapon: a semi-annual visit to the dentist and hygienist. More convenient and less painful than treatment or surgery.