Tooth Diseases and Treatment

Tooth Decay

When teeth are not brushed or are not brushed sufficiently, a layer of bacteria forms on the tooth surface. These bacteria digest food residues left in the mouth (such as bread, crackers, chips, chocolate and other sugary foods) and produce acid. These acids dissolve the hard tissues of the tooth (enamel and dentin) and create decay. Over time, tooth decay progresses and forms cavities, and once cavities have formed they never heal on their own. If left untreated, they grow and cause serious material loss in the tooth. Acids constantly attack the surface of the tooth. However, tooth decay does not occur immediately. This is because other factors work to strengthen the teeth and prevent decay. Saliva tries to strengthen the teeth against decay by depositing the minerals it contains onto the tooth surface. In addition, fluoride found in drinking water and toothpastes also strengthens the teeth against decay.

Should Amalgam (Silver) Fillings Be Replaced with Composite (White) Fillings?

If new decay is detected under or at the edges of amalgam fillings, they can be replaced with composite fillings. In the past, composite fillings were not used in back teeth on the grounds that they were not strong enough. However, today composite fillings have been developed and made as strong as amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are now frequently and safely used in the front and back areas as needed.

To Protect Against Tooth Decay;

• Pay attention to brushing your teeth and using dental floss.
• Reduce snacking between meals.
• If you use medications that reduce saliva production, drink plenty of water.
• Have an examination by your dentist twice a year.

Causes of Tooth Wear

• Brushing the teeth too hard,
• Excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages,
• A hard toothbrush,
• Use of the wrong toothpaste (one with high abrasiveness),
• Teeth clenching and grinding.

Prevention and Treatment

• Brush all surfaces of your teeth with circular movements, avoiding back-and-forth or up-and-down movements in a single area.
• In general, choose a medium-hardness toothbrush.
• Use a toothpaste with low abrasive content that contains fluoride.
• Do not brush your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods and drinks. Rinse your mouth only with water and brush your teeth after waiting 1-2 hours.
• If tooth loss is very extensive, have your teeth treated with composite or porcelain restorations.
• To prevent teeth clenching and grinding, follow the night guard application recommended by your dentist.