Dental caries: causes

Dental caries is a condition where bacteria lead to the decay of teeth, progressively breaking down its structural layers. This decay creates holes in teeth known as cavities. So what causes these cavities and how does the process unfold?

The forming of caries

Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, is the most common bacterial infection in the world. It is believed to affect 95% of the entire population. Ancient Sumerian and Egyptian texts already mention tooth decay. They were convinced the decay was caused by a tooth worm. Nowadays, modern caviology has yielded quite some information on the actual process.

Caries are the result of demineralisation of the tooth. This means that the minerals in the teeth progressively disappear from the tissue - starting with the outer layer (the white enamel), slowly moving inward (the yellow dentine and the inner cementum). This process is put into motion by bacteria that excrete certain acids in presence of sugars. There are two such bacteria, the Streptococcus mutans and the Lactobacillus. The acids lower the pH-value in the mouth, increasing the dissolvability of calciumhydroxyapatite - the mineral from which the dental enamel is formed. As this mineral dissolves, cavities in the teeth are formed. Acids from foods (instead of bacterial processes), such as found in apples and citrus fruits, also cause demineralisation. However, within the field of medicine, this is known as dental erosion.

Plaque

The bacteria that cause dental caries are mostly found in dental plaque. However, dental plaque does not only consist of these bacteria, but also of:

• Proteine from the saliva
• Remainders of food and drinks
• Minerals that result from the dissolving teeth, as well as minerals from tooth paste and saliva

Over time, if the dental plaque is not removed and the individual's immunity is not optimal, all of this will lead to dental caries - affecting teeth and molars. Plaque can be prevented by good oral hygiene, brushing twice a day (waiting at least an hour after consumption of food or drinks) as well as flossing. Upkeeping good oral hygiene will prevent most dental and periodontal diseases. Remaining plaque can be removed at routine dental appointments.

Sources: www.todio.nl