25 Mar

Diagnosing and Treating Tooth Decay

Tooth decay diagnosed and effectively treated by London dentists

Simple activities like eating, drinking and talking rely on having a full set of teeth in place.  Yet the health of your teeth is constantly placed at risk by the acids released by the food you eat.  Taking simple steps to guarantee your oral hygiene will help in ensuring that tooth decay is not allowed to happen.
The main reason for tooth decay is a build up of plaque. Plaque is a substance that forms on teeth after you have eaten sugary or starchy foods.  This attacks the enamel that protects the tooth and can eventually break it down and lead to sensitivity.  In worst cases, the actual nerves inside the tooth are interfered with, which can be very painful indeed.  Cavities might begin to form, which are small holes in the tooth.  If these are allowed to progress then the tooth itself can begin to break down and might ultimately be lost.
Pursuing an adequate home dental hygiene regime is vital to stop tooth decay.  Brush and floss at least twice a day and again if required after sugary or starchy foods.  The bristles on your tooth brush clear away plaque and the fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel against future plaque attacks.
As well as taking good care of your teeth at home, you should be sure to visit your dentist every six months so that your mouth can be thoroughly checked over by a trained expert.  If you experience undue sensitivity of the teeth, this should also be reported to your dentist as it might be an early sign of tooth decay.