Formation of Dental Plaque and Consequences of Untreated Tooth Decay
Dental plaque, formed by bacteria present in the mouth, generates acid from the residues of sugary and starchy foods left in the mouth. These acids dissolve the mineral structure of the teeth, leading to the deterioration of tooth enamel and the onset of tooth decay.
Untreated tooth decay can have serious consequences and must be addressed promptly. Since primary teeth are temporary and will eventually be replaced, parents often overlook decay in them. However, it's crucial to remember that decay in primary teeth can affect the development of subsequent permanent teeth, causing harm in the long term. The mixed dentition period, starting with the eruption of the first permanent teeth around age 6 and ending with the shedding of all primary teeth by approximately age 12, is critical. Although children at the age of 6 may not yet maintain good oral hygiene, their first permanent teeth are already present in their mouths. Untreated decay in primary teeth can lead to pain, bad breath, chewing difficulties, and nutritional imbalances. Decay left untreated will eventually require tooth extraction and can lead to malocclusion, jaw development issues, and even systemic health problems such as rheumatism and heart conditions if not addressed.
Causes and Treatment of Tooth Decay in Children
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Bacteria naturally present in a child's mouth form a sticky substance called plaque. This plaque can cover the teeth, and as the child eats, the bacteria in the plaque produce acid. This acid then erodes the hard enamel of the teeth, leading to the formation of cavities. Excessive consumption of sugary and starchy foods followed by inadequate tooth brushing increases the risk of decay. It's important to include more vitamin- and mineral-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, milk, and cheese in a child's diet. Since children lack the manual dexterity required for effective brushing, parental supervision and assistance are essential.
What are the Signs of Decay?
If your child experiences tooth sensitivity, pain, or persistent bad breath, they may have cavities. You may sometimes notice chalky white spots or dark stains on their teeth, indicating decay. Children often cannot recognize early signs of decay, such as mild pain or sensitivity, and only complain once the pain becomes unbearable. At this stage, the decay has already progressed significantly, and the child's first visit to the dentist may be prompted by severe pain and distress, which can be a challenging experience for both the dentist and the parents.
Preventing Tooth Decay in Children
While tooth decay is preventable, it is still one of the most common oral health issues globally. Establishing good oral hygiene habits, maintaining a positive attitude toward oral health within the family, and regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist can effectively prevent tooth decay. Since primary teeth contain more organic matter than permanent teeth, they are more susceptible to decay. Removing bacteria and sugar from the mouth through brushing is crucial in preventing decay. The duration of food residues in the mouth also plays a role in decay prevention. While it may not always be possible to brush after every meal, rinsing or drinking water can serve as an effective interim measure. Children often only brush the visible or easily accessible surfaces of their teeth. However, cleaning the interdental surfaces and chewing surfaces is equally important in preventing decay. Therefore, parental supervision after brushing is essential.
While there is no vaccine or medication that can completely prevent decay, certain dental materials can reduce the number of cavities by protecting and strengthening teeth. One commonly used material is fissure sealants, which cover the grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars, where cavities often begin. Fissure sealants, along with the fluoride ions they contain, strengthen the tooth structure and prevent the ingress of bacteria and food particles. Fissure sealants can be applied to all primary molars, permanent molars that erupt around age 6, and premolars, as well as to adults at high risk of decay.
Another way to prevent decay is through topical fluoride application, which increases the resistance of teeth to decay. Fluoride is an element that prevents tooth decay and strengthens tooth structure. While fluoride is found in some food items and toothpaste, children often swallow toothpaste while brushing, resulting in insufficient fluoride intake. Therefore, professional topical fluoride applications are performed to address such situations. Professional topical fluoride application is a method used exclusively by dentists and can be safely applied to all children, not just those prone to decay. This ensures that an adequate amount of fluoride is deposited on the teeth, strengthening their structure and making them resistant to decay.
Article Written by Dentist: Dr. Hilal Sillelioğlu
