Decay and Erosion

Decay and Erosion

Dental decay (or cavities) is a disease affecting your mouth wherein a bacterial infection causes damage to the hard structures in your teeth.

Dental decay is caused when the carbohydrates (especially sugar) from the foods we eat is left on your teeth for any period of time. These sugars feed the decay-causing bacteria in your mouth, which in turn allows them to grow, multiply and produce acid. This acid then attacks your teeth, causing mineral loss. The very early stages of mineral loss can be reversible; however continued acid attack leads to the formation of deeper cavities that require restoration.

If decay is not treated, it can reach the nerve tissue of the tooth. In these severe cases, you are often left with only two options; Extraction or Root Canal Treatment. This is why it is important to brush twice a day, floss, and have regular check-ups by your dentist to ensure decay is eliminated in its earlier stages. It is recommended by the Australian Dental Association that you should come in every six months to have a routine check-up and clean.

As a result of our changing dietary habits, another problem that is becoming more prevalent is dental erosion. Dental erosion is the loss of tooth structure due to exposure to acids. Acids make your teeth ‘soft’.

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The major sources of these acids include;

  • Those found in many beverages, including all soft drinks, many fruit juices and many energy drinks (such as Gatorade)
  • Digestive acids which can travel up your oesophagus, usually during bouts of reflux or vomiting.

These acids can gradually erode enamel from teeth and lead to the loss of the tooth’s natural shape, or premature exposure of the dentine, which is the internal part of a tooth. Erosion also often results in increased tooth sensitivity and can make your teeth more susceptible to getting cavities. As part of your regular dental examination, your dentist will look for signs of erosion and other generalised wear.

If you are concerned about any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact our surgery for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tooth decay and tooth erosion?
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down sugars and producing acids that damage the tooth. Tooth erosion, on the other hand, is caused by direct acid exposure from foods, drinks or stomach acid that wears away the enamel surface. Both can lead to serious damage if not treated early.
What are the early signs of tooth decay?
Early signs of decay can include white or brown spots on the teeth, sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks, and mild discomfort when chewing. In the early stages, decay may not cause pain, which is why regular dental check-ups are important.
How do I know if I have dental erosion?
You may notice increased tooth sensitivity, changes in tooth shape or length, or a smooth, worn appearance on the enamel. In some cases, teeth may also become more yellow as the underlying dentine becomes exposed.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay is mainly caused by frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks combined with poor oral hygiene. The bacteria in plaque feed on sugars and produce acids that slowly damage the tooth structure over time.
What causes dental erosion?
Dental erosion is commonly linked to acidic drinks like soft drinks, energy drinks and fruit juices, as well as frequent exposure to stomach acids from reflux or vomiting. These acids soften the enamel, making it easier for it to wear away.
Can decay and erosion be reversed?
Very early stages of both conditions can sometimes be managed or stabilised with fluoride treatments and improved oral care. However, once a cavity forms or enamel is lost, professional dental treatment is needed to restore the tooth.
How can I prevent tooth decay and erosion?
Good prevention includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and attending routine dental check-ups. Small daily habits make a big difference in protecting your teeth long-term.
What happens if decay or erosion is not treated?
If left untreated, decay can progress deeper into the tooth and may require fillings, root canal treatment or even extraction. Erosion can continue to wear away enamel, leading to sensitivity, damage and increased risk of decay.