Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Teeth Decay

Plaque is the white film that causes cavities. It sticks to the front surfaces of your chompers and attacks the enamel. As it eats away the outer shell, it creates cavities. Plaque is created when the bacteria in your mouth feed off the sugar and carbohydrates you consume and turn them into acid plaque. If your teeth aren’t strong enough, the plaque can destroy them.

Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities, or dental caries.

Gums bleed when they are irritated and inflamed which is not considered normal. This is due to plaque being left on the teeth which causes inflammation called gingivitis and if not addressed can develop into gum disease. Over time, if not cleaned off through daily brushing and interdental cleaning, the plaque can turn into a hard deposit called tartar or calculus which will require professional scaling by your dentist or hygienist to remove it.

Your first option is a dental filling. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity is small and simple. Your second option is a dental crown. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity is more complex. Your third option is a root canal. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity has reached and infected the core of the tooth. Your last option is tooth extraction. This is the treatment necessary when the cavity has damaged the tooth to the point of no return.

Gum disease can be prevented by removing plaque. Plaque removal can be easily accomplished by thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Regular dental check-up (every 6-12 months) can detect early signs of gum disease.