Cavities (dental caries)

Cavities is the most common tooth disease in Sweden. At least 95% of the general public develops cavities during their lifetime. Cavities is also called dental caries.

Causes of cavities (dental caries).

Every time we eat or drink bacteria on teeth are provided with nutrients. These bacteria can produce an acidic substance which begins to dissolve the tooth within 30 minutes creating microscopic cavities. Afterward calcium found in the saliva can repair the damage within about 2 hours. Hopefully there is no residual injury to the tooth.

If you eat or drink during this process of repair the whole cycle starts over again. Acid dissolves the tooth and a new attempt to repair the damage is made. Over time visible cavities appear.

Cavities arise most easily on chewing surfaces, areas between the teeth and along the interface between tooth and gum.

How to prevent cavities.

A basic rule is to clean your teeth carefully and avoid snacking between meals. This rule is not always easy to follow, but try to eat regular meals only at mealtime and minimize snacking. In that way your teeth have a chance to fight back before the next episode of acid production.

1. Avoid sugar.
2. You should not eat more than 3 meals and 2 snacks per day.
3. Clean you teeth every morning and before bedtime. If you choose to clean your teeth several times a day it may be helpful.
4. Use toothpaste which contains fluoride and xylitol. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Xylitol reduces formation of plaque.
5. Never give children juice if they wake during the night. Give them water instead.
6. Teach children to eat candy and other sweets only once per week. It is best if they eat candies or sweets over a limited time period. Do not save candy. Give them a glass of water afterwards.

Inflamed Gums (gingivitis)

If bacteria accumulate along the gum line the gum tissue becomes inflamed. Inflammation of the gums is also called gingivitis.

The gum tissue begins to bleed easily, swells, becomes soft and shiny, and takes on a reddened appearance. These changes become apparent after a few weeks. This process can easily be corrected with better cleaning, however a 3 to 4 millimeter deep pocket can remain at the base of the tooth. This pocket arises because the gum tissue has been deformed by inflammation.

With improved dental hygiene the gums return to their natural shape and color.

If gum inflammation is allowed to continue periodontal disease can arise.

Tooth Loss (periodontal disease)

Chronic inflammation of the gums can lead to tooth decay. Decay of the bone surrounding the root of the tooth is called periodontal disease.

In its early stages gingival inflammation can be difficult to discern from periodontal disease. There is no pain or discomfort. In later stages gum tissue becomes tender, a bad taste and bad breath arises, bleeding occurs during cleaning, gum tissue recedes, the membrane around the root and surrounding bone begin to decay, and the tooth becomes loose. In the final stages the tooth is lost. Bone loss has occurred and the area can not heal.