Tooth decay is the commonest dental problem that requires treatment. Filling holes in teeth is not your real answer for the long term! An understanding of the causes of decay and preventative measures will help solve your problems!
What is the cause of decay?
There are millions of bacteria present in everyone’s mouth. These bacteria use the sugar in food and drinks to produce ACID, which dissolves tooth surfaces.
What is the treatment for decay?
The dentist can help by using modern equipment, high quality filling materials and advanced clinical techniques to repair the damage done to teeth.
How to prevent decay:
- Clinical examination and regular X-rays
These are essential to detect and monitor decay.
- Good oral hygiene
Patients who clean teeth well (i.e. good tooth brushing and daily flossing) should have less decay because more of the plaque (containing bacteria) is removed.
- Reduce the frequency of sugar intake
It is important to avoid sugary things in between meals. Each time you have something sweet to eat the acid that is produced causes damage to the teeth for up to one hour. Therefore, the more often you have something sweet, the more decay will occur. A packet of polo mints eaten at regular intervals throughout the day can do far more damage than a bar of chocolate eaten in one go (think about it!).
- A patient who is at risk from decay should use a fluoride mouthwash regularly
Fluoride strengthens the tooth surface (enamel) and helps resist decay.
- Sugar FREE chewing gum
Chewing sugar FREE gum following a sweet meal will wash away the acid quicker by increasing the amount of saliva produced in your mouth.
- Avoid sugary food/drinks last thing at night
A cup of hot chocolate just before bed is not a good idea because whilst sleeping there is no saliva flow.
Payment of Denture Treatment
We require full prepayment when scheduling for your denture appointments.
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