Rotten teeth can develop when a cavity worsens from a lack of treatment. Rotten teeth are characterised by black or brown discolouration, bad breath and sensitivity or pain while biting. The condition can occur in kids or adults and has several common causes – notably consuming too many sugary or starchy foods and drinks.
Treatment depends on the cause but often involves root canals and the fitting of a dental crown. Some preventable causes of rotten teeth include:
- Undetected cavities: Tooth decay is a gradual process and will sometimes be unnoticeable while it is in the early stages. People who do not get regular checkups may find that a cavity develops without many or any symptoms.
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing enough or using an improper technique can contribute to cavities, which may develop into rotten teeth. Using an effective brush and other tools such as flossers and irrigators can improve oral hygiene.
- Dry mouth: If you are living with dry mouth, which occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth, plaque and bacteria can build up more easily. Medications and medical conditions can cause symptoms of a dry mouth.Ā
As kids develop their teeth naturally fall out, which can increase the chances of an undetected cavity and means rotten teeth are frequently more common in children. As children can be more scared of dentist visits, a specialist can provide an effective treatment for the most comfortable experience and a reliable outcome.
As leading providers of a range of treatments that help with rotten teeth and other dental problems, we are well-placed to explain the causes, symptoms and treatments of the condition. We also specialise in treatments for nervous and unsure patients. Contact us today to book an appointment in the Brighton and Hove area.
How a Dentist Fixes Rotten Teeth
Rotten teeth require treatment because several dangerous complications, such as infection, can occur without timely treatment. Infections can spread to other teeth and into the jaw, which can cause quite severe health problems in some cases.
Common methods of treating rotten teeth include:
- Root canals: A root canal treatment involves drilling the tooth and removing the pulp within, which may have become infected. A dentist fixes most issues of bad teeth by using root canals as the first part of a patientās treatment.
- Dental implants: After a root canal, a dental implant or crown can be fitted to the affected tooth. This implant can attach to the remaining healthy tooth and cap it, which will provide a protective layer to prevent any cavities or infections.
- Tooth removal: Kids sometimes have tooth removal treatments as they grow new, healthy teeth as a natural part of their development. Tooth removal can be uncomfortable and distressing for some children, so prevention is better.
A dentist will examine your rotten teeth and determine the scale of the problem. Infections can spread, so seemingly healthy teeth may be also affected by the impact of rotten teeth – this can complicate or extend treatments significantly.
How You Can Prevent Rotten Teeth
While rotten teeth will require treatment, it is possible to prevent them from developing and prevention is the best strategy in fighting many dental conditions. Essentially, you give yourself the best chance by maintaining optimal oral health.
Methods of promoting healthy teeth and gums include:
- Flossing and brushing your teeth regularly: Daily brushing can prevent tooth decay, gum disease and many other problems. Using fluoride toothpaste while brushing and flossing regularly will make for healthy teeth and gums.
- Having regular checkups: A lot of people live with dental phobias, which may mean they avoid the dentist. It is vital to get regular checkups, even if you are afraid of the dentist, to detect bad teeth and gum issues before they develop.
- Avoiding problem foods and drinks: Both kids and adults can benefit from avoiding sugary or starchy foods and drinks. Limiting the consumption of soft drinks, crisps and sweets will help stop cavities from forming in the mouth.
The methods described above prevent many types of dental issues. If you have an underlying medical condition then preventing rotten teeth is extremely important, as you may be at risk of severe complications that can result from an infection.
Book an Appointment and Avoid Rotten Teeth
If rotten teeth occur it is usually a result of an early stage of tooth decay progressing, and it may take a long time for teeth to reach this point. You will avoid the pain, sensitivity and psychological effects of rotten teeth by using preventive strategies. The easiest way to avoid them is to ensure you’re practising good oral hygiene through brushing and flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly.
Getting checkups and timely treatments is vital for healthy teeth and gums, and if you are nervous around dentists you should always look to find a specialist clinic that’s equipped for your comfort. We deliver excellent checkups and treatments for nervous patients in Brighton and Hove. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment.
