Why does tooth decay

Fluoride helps to protect teeth by strengthening the enamel, making teeth more resistant to the acids from plaque that can cause tooth decay Treatments for holes in teeth When there's a hole in the tooth, treatment may include: a filling or crown — this involves removing the dental decay and filling the hole or covering the tooth read about what NHS fillings and crowns are made of root canal treatment — this may be needed to remove tooth decay that's spread to the centre of the tooth where the blood and nerves are the pulp removing all or part of the tooth — this is usually advised when the tooth is badly damaged and cannot be restored; your dentist may be able to replace the tooth with a partial denture , bridge or implant Cost of NHS treatment NHS charges are set by the government and are standard for all NHS patients.

Financial help may also be available to those on a low income. Read more about: NHS dental charges getting help with dental charges The cost of private dental treatment varies between practices, as there's no set charge. If you choose to see a private dentist, make sure to agree the cost before having treatment.

Preventing tooth decay in adults Although tooth decay is a common problem, it's often entirely preventable. Regular visits to the dentist at an early age should also be encouraged. Children should still brush their teeth twice a day, especially before bedtime. Read more about: how to look after your baby's teeth how to look after your children's teeth tips on giving your child sweets, fizzy drinks and using bottles What causes tooth decay Your mouth is full of bacteria that form a film over the teeth called dental plaque.

The acid can break down the surface of your tooth, causing holes known as cavities. X-rays are also necessary to diagnose decay as it can occur in areas not visible to the naked eye. When tooth decay gets worse, a hole may have formed that may need a filling. Your dentist will remove the damaged part of the tooth and repair the tooth with a filling material. It is important to have this done as early as possible as the longer the decay is left untreated, the further it spreads into the tooth.

Early detection and treatment help preserve tooth strength and prevent bacteria from damaging its centre. As decay gets worse, people often experience sensitivity to sweet, cold or hot food and drinks. If you feel this kind of discomfort, speak to your dentist as soon as possible to have the decay treated. If your tooth has been aching then decay may have reached the centre of the tooth and the nerve inside. When this happens, root canal treatment may be needed to keep the tooth in your mouth.

Your dentist can give you advice about how to prevent tooth decay from occurring again. Just filling a hole will not stop tooth decay from occurring in other areas of the mouth or around the new filling.

So, if your dentist has found tooth decay, focus on the things that you can do to prevent further decay in the future. Learn how to spot tooth decay warning signs. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. If you don't have enough calcium in your diet, your bones will eventually become weak and brittle.

Food and Drug Administration. Accessed March 4, Dental sealants prevent cavities. The tooth decay process: How to reverse it and avoid a cavity. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Root canals. American Dental Association. Anorexia nervosa. Dental caries. Rochester, Minn. Dry mouth. Nutrition: What you eat affects your teeth. Wright JT, et al. Evidence-based clinical practice guideline for the use of pit-and-fissure sealants.

Journal of the American Dental Association. Salinas TJ expert opinion. It's also important to have regular dental check-ups. Adults should have a check-up at least once every two years and children under the age of 18 should have a check-up at least once a year.

Read more on getting over a fear of the dentist. Charges are assessed each year and usually change every April. Some people don't have to pay for dental treatment, including children, pregnant women and new mothers.

Financial help may also be available to those on a low income. The cost of private dental treatment varies between practices, as there is no set charge. If you choose to see a private dentist, make sure to agree the cost before having treatment. Although tooth decay is a common problem, it's often entirely preventable. The best way to avoid tooth decay is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.

For example, you should:. Establishing good eating habits by limiting sugary snacks and drinks can help your child avoid tooth decay. Regular visits to the dentist at an early age should also be encouraged. It's important to teach your child how to clean their teeth properly and regularly.