At The Briars Dental Centre in Newbury, we believe that knowledge is key to maintaining optimal oral health. One of the most common questions our patients ask relates to tooth decay – particularly whether it can spread from person to person. Let’s explore this topic in detail and address the facts to help with understanding tooth decay.
While tooth decay itself isn’t directly contagious, the bacteria that cause it can be transmitted between people. Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacteria responsible for decay, can spread through shared items and close contact.
Understanding Bacterial Transmission
Certain daily activities can transfer decay-causing bacteria:
However, the presence of these bacteria alone doesn’t guarantee tooth decay. Several factors work together to protect or compromise your dental health.
The Science Behind Tooth Decay
Tooth decay develops when acids produced by oral bacteria erode your tooth enamel. These bacteria thrive on sugars and carbohydrates from your diet, producing harmful acids as a byproduct. Understanding this process helps explain why good oral hygiene and dietary choices are crucial for prevention.
1. Initial Demineralisation
The earliest stage of decay appears as white spots on your teeth. At this point, the damage is reversible through proper oral care and professional intervention. Our team can provide targeted fluoride treatments to strengthen affected areas.
2. Enamel Decay
Without intervention, the enamel begins to break down, forming small cavities. You might notice increased sensitivity to temperature changes and sweet foods. Early treatment with minimally invasive fillings can prevent further damage.
3. Dentine Involvement
As decay progresses deeper, it reaches the dentine layer beneath your enamel. This stage often brings increased discomfort and sensitivity. Prompt treatment becomes essential to prevent more extensive damage.
4. Pulp Infection
When decay reaches your tooth’s pulp chamber, you may experience significant pain and inflammation. At this stage, root canal treatment often becomes necessary to save the tooth and eliminate infection.
5. Abscess Formation
The most severe stage involves infection spreading beyond the tooth root, forming an abscess. This requires immediate attention to prevent serious complications.
At The Briars, we emphasise preventative care through a comprehensive approach:
Professional Care
Regular check-ups allow our experienced team to identify early signs of decay. Using advanced technology, including digital imaging, we can detect problems before they become severe.
Home Care Excellence
Maintain optimal oral health by:
Dietary Considerations
Smart dietary choices significantly impact your oral health. Consider:
The timing of sugary foods and drinks matters as much as the quantity. Try to limit sweet treats to mealtimes, allowing your saliva to neutralise acids more effectively.
Advanced Prevention
For patients at higher risk, we offer additional preventative measures:
Early intervention offers the best outcomes for treating decay. Contact our team if you notice:
At The Briars Dental Centre, we combine advanced technology with expertise to provide comprehensive decay prevention and treatment. Our approach focuses on preserving your natural teeth through early intervention and personalised care plans.
Your Partner in Oral Health
We’re committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health through education, prevention, and when necessary, intervention. Our team stays current with the latest research and techniques to provide you with exceptional care.
Don’t wait for decay to progress. Contact The Briars Dental Centre to schedule your comprehensive examination. Together, we’ll develop a personalised plan to protect your smile for years to come.
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