It is a chronic infectious disease that causes progressive and irreversible destruction of the tooth. There are several factors that favor its appearance, including highlight, first, a diet rich in carbohydrates with high caries activity (sucrose, fructose, lactose), the susceptibility of the tooth and the presence of cariogenic microorganisms (streptococci, actinomyces and lactobacilli).
Second is the formation of tooth anatomy, composition and amount of saliva produced by the individual and the individual hygiene practice.
The origin of decay lies at the confluence of a diet rich in sugars and the presence of cariogenic bacteria, which included dental plaque, degrade carbohydrates with the formation of acids. These acids (pyruvic, lactic, acetic) are really responsible for the demineralization of tooth enamel. This is so that when the pH of the oral cavity reaches values less than 5.5 there is a dissolution of hydroxyapatite forming enamel and increased porosity.
In this first phase the decay is reversible if it is treated with comprehensive dental hygiene and the application of fluorinated compounds. If the injury progresses, forming a cavity that allows access of microorganisms to organic matter in the tooth (dentin). These rise through the dentinal tubules and reach the pulp of the tooth causing inflammation (pulpitis), pulp necrosis and finally, the destruction of the tooth.
As we have seen, the use of fluoride, fissure sealing dental and reduced consumption of cariogenic sugars, along with good oral hygiene, preventive measures are to prevent the development of caries.
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