Eye Smile: What do you know about tooth decay?

Did you know that one in three adults in England suffers form tooth decay. It is also the biggest cause of primary school children being hospitalised.

So the question you should be asking yourself is…

What precautions are you taking?

Do you occasionally suffer from toothache or tooth sensitivity? Maybe you’ve experienced an unpleasant taste in your mouth recently? Or perhaps you have bad breath?

If you have experienced any of the above, you could be suffering from a form of tooth decay.

Although levels of tooth decay have decreased over the last few decades, it is still incredibly common and to this day is one of the most widespread health problems in the UK.

Tooth decay, or rotting teeth (as it is more informally known), is also the most common cause of primary school aged children being admitted to hospital. New figures show that nearly 500 children aged five to nine were hospitalised due to tooth decay each week in 2013-2014. In some cases, dentists were forced to remove all 20 baby teeth from their young patients.

Tooth decay is something you and your family need to take incredibly seriously.

Although tooth decay can develop for several reasons, the most common cause is a build-up of plaque. If left, plaque can eventually damage the outer protective layer of your teeth.

Diet is also a major influence of tooth decay. When you consume food and drink that is high in carbohydrates – especially those high in sugar – the bacteria and plaque in your mouth produces harmful acid. If plaque is allowed to build up, the acid can then begin to break down your teeth while causing them to rot from the inside.

You’ll be pleased to know that despite tooth decay being an incredibly common condition in the UK, it can be easily prevented. And the best way to avoid the constant threat of tooth decay is by keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

You can achieve this by brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, while flossing or using an interdental toothbrush at least once a day. This is a great way to clean between your teeth and under the gum line where plaque can often get trapped.

Additionally, the most important precaution to take – which will improve your overall health too – is to cut down on sugary and starchy foods.

For more information about tooth decay, or to book an appointment at Eye Smile, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact our friendly team by calling 020 8755 790.

Best wishes,

Milene Antal

Eye Smile