Tooth Decay

Tooth Decay - Preventive Dentistry

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay, also known as caries or a dental cavity, is bacterial in origin. In this process there is demineralisation of the hard tissues (enamel, dentine and cementum) and destruction of the organic matter of the tooth, usually by production of acid by hydrolysis of the food debris accumulated on the tooth surface.

In the early stages tooth decay does not cause discomfort and may not show any physical signs. The dentists using higher magnification, powerful lighting and x-rays to detect decay at an early stage to prevent excessive tooth damage. When cavities are small, they are much easier to treat.