In some instances, an abscess might form at the base of the pulp.Caries is derived from a Latin Word which means “Rot” or “Decay” and in Greek it means “Ker” for “Death”.Īccording to Ostrom (1980) has defined as a process of Enamel or Dentin dissolution which is caused by microbial action at the tooth surface and is mediated by physiochemical flow of water dissolved ions.Īccording to Hume (1993) Dental caries is essentially a progressive loss by acid dissolution of the apetite (mineral) component of the enamel then the dentin or of the cementum and then dentin. The final step involves the innermost pulp layer, which leads to extreme pain, difficulty in chewing, and severe discomfort. The third stage involves dentin, which causes hypersensitivity to be hot and cold stimuli if it progresses. The second stage leads to further breakdown of enamel that appears as black or brown spots. The enamel appears chalky white, opaque, and slightly rough in texture. The first stage marks the initial demineralization of enamel. The progression of tooth decay occurs in three stages. Other diseases that make teeth more susceptible to caries include diabetes, severe fluorosis, amelogenesis imperfecta, molar-incisor hypomineralization, and xerostomia. The frequency at which these sugary substances are taken also affects the progression of this disease. This weakens the outermost layer of the tooth structure and, if not addressed at an early stage, progresses to dental caries or cavitation of the tooth. A pH level below 5.5 leads to demineralization of enamel. This process releases acidic substances that reduce the oral cavity’s overall pH. The major factors involved in the initiation of tooth decay are oral bacteria, complex carbohydrates or sugars, and weak tooth structure upon intake of sugary substances, e.g., beverages, bakery products, chocolates, etc., the bacteria residing in plaque that surrounds the tooth ferment these sugars.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |