Tooth Decay

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Tooth Decay is an infection that originated from bacteria that causes demineralisation and destruction of the hard tissues of the teeth. It is the result of the production of acid by bacterial during fermentation of food residue accumulated on the tooth surface. Tooth decay is among the world's most common health problems. They're especially common in children, teenagers and older adults. But anyone who has teeth can get tooth decay, including infants.If they aren't treated, they will get larger and affect deeper layers of teeth. They can lead to severe toothache, infection and tooth loss.

Symptoms

• Toothache
• Tooth sensitivity
• Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold
• Visible holes or pits in teeth
• Pain when bite down
• Pus around a tooth, especially when  press on gums

Causes

• Does not brush teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime.
• Does not floss teeth each day.
• Eat foods with a lot of sugar. The longer a sugary food stays on teeth, the more the bacteria feed and make acids. 
• Lack of fluoride in the public water supply also makes tooth decay more likely.
• Pass the bacteria that cause tooth decay to baby. This can happen when share spoons, forks, and other utensils with babies. 

Action plans

• Brush after eating or drinking  at least twice a day and ideally after every meal, using fluoride-containing toothpaste. If can't brush after eating, at least try to rinse mouth with water.
• Rinse mouth. If dentist feels you have a high risk of developing cavities, he or she may recommend that you use a mouth rinse with fluoride.
• Visit dentist regularly. Get professional tooth cleanings and regular oral exams, which can help prevent problems or spot them early. 
• Avoid frequent snacking and sipping. Whenever eat or drink something other than water, mouth bacteria create acids that can destroy tooth enamel.
• Avoid foods that get stuck in grooves and pits of  teeth for long periods, such as chips, candy or cookies.
• Eat food that protects teeth, such as cheese, which some research shows may help prevent cavities, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, which increase saliva flow, and unsweetened coffee, tea and sugar-free gum, which help wash away food particles.
• Consider fluoride treatments.Dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment, especially if you aren't getting enough fluoride through fluoridated drinking water and other sources such as  fluoridated toothpaste or mouthwash.