What are dental caries?

Dental Implant House, with its vast experience and deep knowledge in the dental care field, is committed to providing you with the best practices and solutions to ensure the health and beauty of your smile. You will discover how to deal with cavities effectively, with practical tips and targeted treatments, always putting your dental health at the center. this article, we will explore dental cavities: what they are, what causes them, the various types of cavities and how to prevent them.

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What are dental caries?

Dental caries are lesions in teeth caused by the loss of enamel, a gradual process that begins with the action of common bacteria found in the mouth. These bacteria metabolize residual sugars and carbohydrates in foods, producing corrosive acids. The acids attack tooth enamel, depriving it of essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Demineralization makes enamel more vulnerable and susceptible to the formation of small lesions.

The persistence of a constant state of demineralization, influenced by a sugar-rich diet and poor oral hygiene, creates a favorable environment for the development of these lesions. Caries often begins as small white spots on the tooth surface, indicating mineral loss, and gradually deepens, threatening the internal tooth structure.

Types of caries:

The variety of caries types is a key component in understanding and effectively treating these dental lesions. Distinguishing them according to their depth and the area involved is essential for planning targeted interventions and preserving tooth health.

Superficial Caries:

Superficial caries represents the first stage of enamel damage. At this stage, the lesion may appear as a white or dark spot on the tooth surface. Recognizing and treating superficial caries early is critical to prevent its progression to deeper layers of the tooth.

Intermediate Caries:

When lesions go beyond the enamel and reach the dentin, the softer tissue below, this is called intermediate caries. This stage can cause sensitivity to temperature changes and contact with sweet or acidic foods. Treatment at this stage often requires removal of the carious part and application of dental fillings.

Deep Caries:

 Deep lesions represent the advanced stage, involving the dental pulp, the inner core that contains blood vessels and nerves. This stage is often associated with severe pain and may require more invasive interventions, such as root canal treatment or, in severe cases,extraction of the tooth.

Interdental Caries:

Interdental caries develops in the areas between teeth, often escaping view during regular brushing. Flossing even hydrobrushing becomes critical to prevent them, as they can progress silently before becoming noticeable.

Preventing cavities: Defenses for a shining smile

Prevention is a key mainstay in maintaining a shining smile and long-term dental health. The Dental Implant House , with its commitment to prevention, suggests a series of daily practices and regular interventions to protect teeth from cavities.

Strict oral hygiene:

Regular tooth brushing is the essential first step in preventing tooth decay. Thorough brushing, at least twice a day with a good toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste, helps remove food residues and counteract bacterial plaque accumulation.

Flossing is equally crucial. Many areas between teeth are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, and hydrobrushing or flossing plays a key role in removing food residue and plaque between teeth, reducing the risk of interdental decay.

Regular visits to the dentist:

Regular visits to the dentist play a key role in preventing problems. Regular checkups allow early identification of signs of potential problems and professional cleanings that help maintain a healthy mouth.

Enamel strengthening and remineralization with Biosmalto mouthwashes and toothpastes.