Tooth decay is the product of sugars and starches being left on teeth, causing bacteria to grow and deteriorate your teeth. Foods like fruits, candy, milk, breads, and cereals all contain carbohydrates that feed the bacteria living in your mouth, which combine to form plaque that clings to your teeth. This plaque slowly begins to dissolve the enamel on the surface of your teeth, creating nasty holes called cavities.
Tooth decay pictures can help some people start on the right path of overall care of their teeth, but first let’s take a look at some symptoms of tooth decay.
Symptoms of Tooth Decay
- Bad breath: As teeth begin to rot, food that becomes stuck in a cavity of a tooth begins to decay and releases a terrible odor.
- Sensitive teeth: Once your tooth’s enamel begins to dissolve, the nerve endings inside your teeth become more exposed causing sensitivity to cold or hot foods.
- Discoloration of teeth: At first, teeth will show a chalky white discoloration. Without proper tooth decay treatment, the teeth will begin to turn yellow and brown.
And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for…
Pictures of Tooth Decay
Okay, that’s enough of that! Now let’s take a look at how you can prevent tooth decay.
Tooth Decay Prevention
- Brush, floss, and rinse: It may sound obvious, but brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash every day is one of the easiest methods of tooth decay prevention. Brush at least twice a day, especially after meals and before bed. Floss at least once a day, and be sure to rinse after each.
- Eat right: Another way to keep your mouth and body healthy is by eating well. Eat balanced, healthy meals, and avoid snacks that are high in sugar and carbohydrates.
- Visit your dentist: Keeping up to date with your dental visits is a crucial part to keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
If you have questions about or think you may be showing symptoms of tooth decay, contact us today!