Rotten Teeth: What Causes Them and How to Prevent It

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By Picasso Dental & Orthodontics

Good oral health is the perfect combination of a healthy smile, gums, and teeth. Regular care and maintenance can lead to healthier teeth and prevent any future complications. Tooth decay can silently destroy your teeth’s structure and affect your entire oral well-being. Neglecting this issue can completely destroy your dental health and can bring multiple issues. In this article, you can find out the causes, signs, and treatment options for this problem. 

What Are the Causes of Rotten Teeth?

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay or cavities, is a widespread oral health issue affecting people of all ages in the United States. In fact, approximately 21.3% of U.S. adults have untreated dental caries.* Here are some common causes of infected or damaged teeth:

Poor Dental Hygiene: Neglecting to brush and floss daily allows plaque to build up, leading to tooth decay.

Poor Diet: Because sugar and carbs stick to teeth, eating a diet high in these foods can also cause tooth rot. 

Dry Mouth: Too little saliva produced by your salivary glands can increase the amount of bacteria and plaque in your mouth, increasing your risk of tooth decay.

Dental Crevices: Deep dental fissures can also lead to tooth decay. If plaque accumulates in these groves, brushing may become more difficult. 

Fluoride Deficiency: A naturally occurring mineral called fluoride can fortify tooth enamel and increase its resistance to cavities. Although it is not typically included in bottled water, it is added to public water systems. 

Effective Treatment for Rotten Teeth

The treatment for infected teeth is typically the same for both children and adults, with the goal of saving the tooth during the process.

Treatments With Fluoride: Fluoride has the ability to repair enamel and even stop early deterioration. 

Fluoride Mouthwash/Toothpaste: Prescription fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash can help fortify enamel and stop more deterioration. 

Fillings: Extracting the decayed tooth tissue and then filling the cavity is the most popular method of treating cavities.

Root Canal: To remove the infected pulp and seal the tooth, a root canal may be required if the decay has spread to the pulp. 

Crown: To protect the tooth and restore its shape and function following a root canal, a crown is frequently affixed. 

Extraction: Extraction, or removal, may be the only course of action when a tooth is seriously injured or infected. 

What Are the Signs of Rotten Teeth

The symptoms of cavities vary based on their quantity and location. When a cavity is in its early stages, you might not experience any symptoms. As the decay enlarges, you might see these rotten tooth signs:

  • Tooth pain and other discomfort.
  • Sensitivity in the tooth.
  • Pain when eating or drinking sweet or hot items cold.
  • Cavities or pits in your teeth that you can see.
  • Stains in brown, black, or white can appear on any surface of a tooth.
  • Discomfort occurs when biting down.

Achieve Healthier Teeth With Us

Are you worried about your decaying teeth? If so, watch for the signs mentioned earlier. For healthier teeth, take proactive steps to prevent tooth decay by visiting us at Picasso Dental & Orthodontics – Corsicana.

We offer regular dental care to protect your teeth, along with various treatments to address damage at any stage. Our experienced dentist specializes in treating dental issues caused by tooth decay and provides personalized care for families in and around Corsicana, TX. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step toward a healthier smile.

*Medical References: Dental Caries


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