Know The Causes Of Tooth Decay And The Role of Fluoride To Prevent It
Tooth decay which is a common dental condition, can directly lead to pain, gum infections, and tooth loss and severe decay can affect your nutrition intake as well.
New Delhi: Oral health is the window to overall wellbeing. Healthy teeth are not only important for important for aesthetics but also play an important role in speech and digestion. However, tooth decay which is a common dental condition, can directly lead to pain, gum infections, and tooth loss. Severe decay can affect your nutrition intake, as the pain and discomfort limits the food choices. Thus it's essential to know about the major causes of tooth decay to make healthy choices.
Causes Of Tooth Decay:
Dr. Riddhi Rathi Shet, HOD, Dental Department, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai listed out the major causes of tooth decay:
1. Dietary Habits: Frequent consumption of sugary snacks, sweets, and beverages provides a favorable environment for harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria produce acids that erode the enamel, causing tooth decay. Even sweet dishes like 'jalebis', 'gulab jamuns', and 'mithais', often consumed in large quantities during festivals, can contribute to teeth decay, if teeth are not properly cleaned.
2. Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Most common cause of tooth decay is avoiding the regular brushing and flossing. This allows food particles to remain lodged between teeth. This residual food becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which produce decay-causing acids.
3. Fluoride Deficiency: Many regions in India have low fluoride levels in their water supply or rely on non-fluoridated sources like borewells. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and aids in resisting decay.
4. Limited Access to Dental Care: Regular dental check-ups can detect early signs of decay, allowing for timely intervention. However, dental screening awareness is dismal in many parts of even urban India, while rural regions have limited access to dental care facilities or awareness about the importance of preventive dental check-ups.
5. Tobacco Use: The consumption of tobacco, whether smoked or chewed (as in 'gutka' or 'paan masala'), causes gum disease and cavities. Being one of the highest tobacco users, us Indians have exceedingly high chances of tooth decay and other tobacco related conditions such as cancer.
Importance of Fluoride in Preventing Tooth Decay
In this regard, Dr. Shveta Thareja - The founder of Artistree Dental and cosmetics said, "Fluoride, for a good reason, is frequently referred to as nature's cavity-fighter. By strengthening and increasing the resistance to cavities on the surface of our teeth, known as tooth enamel, this naturally occurring mineral helps prevent tooth decay."
How does fluoride actually function?
Dr. Shveta further went on to explain how fluorides actually function.
She said, "Bacteria that thrive in our mouths are the main cause of cavities. They eat the leftovers they find in our mouths, including sweet foods and beverages. These bacteria release acids when they ingest glucose which damages the tooth enamel. When the protective outer coating of our teeth is damaged over time, tooth decay can develop."
By repairing the harm that these acids may cause to our teeth, fluoride helps in the fight against cavities. This process of repairing the damage is called Remineralization.
"Fluoride fights tooth decay by strengthening the enamel's resistance to the action of acid. They also quicken the process of healthy minerals accumulating in the enamel, further delaying the onset of deterioration. Studies also suggest that in some cases, fluoride can be able to stop tooth decay that has already begun. Fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of permanent teeth in children under the age of six, strengthening the teeth against the effects of bacteria and the acids from food," she further went on to say.
How to use Fluoride effectively?
According to studies, fluoride in water is particularly effective in preventing cavities in children. Similar to adding vitamins and minerals to specific meals and beverages, adding fluoride to water helps us acquire the nutrition we need. Additionally, dentists advise using fluoride toothpaste when brushing.
For children between the ages of 3 and 6: At this point, kids start learning how to take care of their own teeth. They should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time, twice per day. Make sure that your child uses the proper amount of toothpaste and doesn't swallow too much.
Teenagers and older kids: As they become older, keep reminding youngsters to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Adults: Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily for at least two minutes each time, or as recommended by your dentist or doctor. It is usually better to brush in the morning and evening.
Other General Tips To Prevent Tooth Decay:
Dr. Apeksha Anand who is a visiting consultant at Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital said, "Preventing tooth decay is key to maintaining good oral health, and as a dentist I emphasize a comprehensive approach to this concern."
She also suggested a few tips to prevent tooth decay.
- A consistent oral hygiene routine is essential. Brushing your teeth with fluoride at least twice a day, flossing daily and using antibacterial mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to decay.
- Regular dental examinations are essential for early detection and intervention.
- Expert cleaning and testing can identify damaged areas that may need filling or other treatment in a timely manner.
- Preventive chemicals and fluoride treatments may also be recommended to harden the enamel and provide additional protection.
- Where deterioration has occurred, restorative procedures such as fillings, crowns, or dental implants may be necessary.
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