What is Dental Caries? And How To Prevent It

Dental caries, also known as "cavities", is damage to the surface of the teeth that occurs due to bacterial activity in the mouth. These bacteria are able to convert sugars and carbohydrates from food and beverages into acids. The acid causes damage to tooth enamel called the process of demineralizing tooth enamel, which is the erosion of the outer protective layer of the teeth. If this condition continues to be left untreated, the caries infection process will continue to develop, causing pain and even tooth loss.

The Process of Dental Caries
Plaque formation: Bacteria, food waste particles, and saliva (saliva) form plaque on the surface of the teeth. This plaque is sticky and full of bacteria capable of producing acid.
Acid Formation: When consuming sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in the plaque metabolize sugar and produce acid. The acid produced by bacteria begins to erode tooth enamel, initially causing white spot lesions on the surface of tooth enamel, if left unchecked, it will continue to form cavities or cavities in the teeth.

Clinical Overview and Symptoms of Dental Caries
White spot lesions or brown spots on the surface of tooth enamel at the beginning of dental caries formation tooth sensitivity after consuming sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks. Small or large cavities visible in teeth a sharp throbbing pain that appears spontaneously to interfere with sleep when the cavities are large and deep if they have hit the dental nerve. Pain that can appear when used to bite (usually found in cases of teeth with the extension of the infection towards the periapical)

Prevention of Dental Caries
Prevention of dental caries involves good self-care habits and regular visits to the dentist. Here are some steps that can be taken to prevent dental caries:

• Brush your teeth twice a day, after eating and before going to bed
  Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth for two minutes, making sure all tooth surfaces are touched. Clean between teeth with dental floss or an interdental brush at least once a day.
• Use fluoride toothpaste
  Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent acid damage. Choose a toothpaste that contains at least 1,000 ppm fluoride.
• Reduce the consumption of sugary foods and drinks
  Bacteria in the mouth use sugar to produce acids that can damage tooth enamel. Limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks such as candy, chocolate, fruit juice, and soda.
• Consume healthy foods
  Increase the consumption of calcium and phosphorus-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, green vegetables, and nuts. These foods help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent damage
• Visit the dentist regularly
  Regular dental check-ups (at least once every 6 months) help detect cavities and other dental problems early. The dentist can provide the right treatment to prevent cavities from getting worse.

Well, Sahabat Hermina, dental caries is a common condition but can be prevented with proper oral care. Brushing regularly, flossing, limiting sugar consumption, and regular check-ups are all effective steps to prevent caries. By maintaining healthy teeth, you can avoid more serious complications and maintain a healthy smile throughout your life. Stay safe and healthy!

Referensi :

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-az/tooth-decay

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892

Pelestarian dan Pemulihan Struktur Gigi. GJ Mounts, WR Hume. Mosby, 2005. Karies Gigi. Fejerskov. Blackwell Science. 2010