IMPORTANT: Aimed at the general public, the Bücco Guide is a general educational guide. Its content presents some of the most common dental practices. However, there are many approaches and philosophies in dentistry and your dentist / specialist will be able to advise you on what he believes to be the most appropriate for your oral health. Do not hesitate to consult a dentist / specialist for more information.
Cavities are a very common infectious disease that gradually destroys the components of the tooth, starting with the hard tissues (enamel and dentin) and progressing to the dental pulp, which contains the nerves. It can also develop on the root of the teeth if it is exposed. Dental caries is the result of the attack of the tooth by acids produced by the microorganisms of plaque (biofilm) accumulated on the teeth. |
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The main cause of the appearance of cavities is the presence of dental plaque (biofilm). Despite regular tooth brushing, certain habits can promote the presence of plaque:
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Make an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are some recommendations:
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Stage 1 of cariesIn the initial stage, the acid causes decalcification and decomposition of the different structures of the tooth by demineralizing it, starting with the enamel. No pain is yet felt. Stage 2 of cariesIf the cavity is not stopped, it will progress and destroy the dentin of the tooth under the enamel. At this stage, careful and thorough brushing and flossing of the teeth will not prevent it from developing, as the bristles of the brush can only access the surface of the infected site. Stage 3 of cariesThe survival of the tooth is severely compromised when the cavity reaches the pulp, causing pain and allowing the infection to spread. At this stage, root canal treatment is almost the only way to preserve the tooth. This is possible if the remaining walls of the decayed tooth are not too damaged and are in sufficient quantity. Stage 4 of cariesIn addition to compromising the vitality of the tooth, the infection that has invaded the entire dental pulp can spread and form an abscess at the root tips. The pus cluster located in the abscess causes bone destruction that contains the infection and destruction can progress to piercing the jaw bone causing a fistula allowing pus to flow out. Without the elimination of pus, symptoms such as swelling, fever and acute pain will appear. If the tooth is too heavily affected by cavities, the tooth may have to be extracted. |
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Reduce:
The most recommended methods to prevent cavities and maintain good oral health remain: At home
In the dental office
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Painful gums (adult)
Sore gums (baby)
Diffuse pain affecting a part of the face (facial neuralgia or trigeminal neuralgia)
Tooth decay
Dental hypersensitivity
Pain in one milk tooth
Pain following extraction of wisdom teeth, impacted tooth
Pain following the extraction of one or more teeth (dry alveolitis)
Pain at pressure
Dental pain
Pain in the salivary glands
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