Cosmetic Dentistry Reviews

Archive for the ‘Tooth Decay’ Category

Tooth decay, otherwise known as dental caries, is as considered one of the most common conditions worldwide; in fact, it is second to the common cold as the most common health problem. It affects everyone, young or old alike. It can be caused by milk and baby bottle for an infant, sweet foods and improper oral hygiene for children, and inappropriate diet and vices for older people. Since tooth decay has an impact in a person’s self-esteem and health in general, it is important that tooth decay is treated promptly and well.

Treatment for dental caries can be categorized into two – treatment for tooth decay at its onset, and treatment for tooth decay in its later stages.

If tooth decay has not yet destroyed the affected tooth, the usual methods of treatment are proper oral hygiene, fluoride, and regular check-ups to the dentist. This is because if tooth decay is diagnosed at an early stage, its progression can be blocked, future decays reversed, and unnecessary expenses prevented.

Proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, is a great way to prevent further damage, or to keep new decays from occurring. Using fluoride toothpaste or undergoing fluoride treatment, is another treatment advised by dentists to stop tooth decay before cavities are formed, and to reduce the chances of sensitive teeth that is a common complication of weakened teeth. Check-ups with the dentist are advised at least twice a year. This is so that your dentist can advise treatments if tooth decay is diagnosed, and can even help educate you in the proper caring of your teeth through pictures, and readings. Read the rest of this entry »

PREVENTION

* Never leave your child in bed with a bottle.
* Avoid prolonged use of pacifiers.
* After every meal, rinse your child’s teeth and gums with a clean sponge or gauze pad to remove plaque.
* Start using dental floss between the teeth of children occur in the first baby teeth.
* Between meals, if your child needs another between meals, give him a bottle of clear fresh water.
* Do not fill your child’s bottle with sugar liquids such as punch, gelatin or sugary drinks.
* Make sure your child take fluoride in some way, especially if your water is not fluoridated.
* Observe your child’s teeth regularly and begin dental visits when teeth start coming.

DEFINITION
The deterioration of the teeth by the bottle is a dental problem that can destroy the teeth of a child in the first 2 years.

CAUSES
The deterioration of the teeth by the bottle is produced by exposing the teeth to liquids containing sugars during long periods of time. Among these liquids are milk, juice, gelatin or other sugary liquids.

The tooth decay occurs in children who continue to suck for long periods of time (may happen, for example, if the mother falls asleep while the baby is nursing). The plaque of bacteria that is on the teeth uses these sugars as an energy source to form acids that attack tooth enamel.