How is tooth decay formed?

Generally, tooth decay, also known as dental caries, may be caused by poor oral hygiene, dietary habits, reduced saliva secretion, pulpitis, diabetes, and other factors. Treatment can be carried out under medical guidance through general management, medication, dental fillings, dental implants, or tooth extraction. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar on the tooth surface. Bacteria multiply within the plaque, breaking down food residues to produce acidic substances that erode the hard tissues of teeth, resulting in caries. Maintaining good daily oral hygiene habits is essential. Dental fillings can be performed under the guidance of a professional dentist. This procedure involves using artificial materials—such as resin, ceramic, or metal alloys—to fill cavities or defects in the teeth. The reference cost is generally 100–500 yuan per tooth. Improvement is typically seen within about one hour, although symptoms such as tooth sensitivity or material detachment may occur.

2. Dietary Habits

Frequent consumption of high-sugar and high-carbohydrate foods provides abundant nutrients for bacteria, promoting bacterial growth and acid production, which accelerates demineralization and destruction of tooth structure, leading to caries. Modifying dietary habits in daily life is important, including avoiding high-sugar and high-carbohydrate foods. It is recommended to undergo dental implantation under the guidance of a professional dentist. This involves surgically placing an artificial tooth root into the jawbone, followed by attaching a dental crown to restore both function and appearance. The reference cost ranges from 4,000 to 20,000 yuan per tooth. Improvement is usually noticeable within one hour, but potential complications include infection or implant failure.

3. Reduced Saliva Secretion

Decreased saliva production may result from medication side effects, oral health issues, dehydration, or neurological disorders. Saliva plays key roles in cleansing the mouth, neutralizing acids, and maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. When saliva secretion decreases, these protective functions are weakened, increasing the risk of dental caries. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help maintain oral moisture. In some cases, tooth extraction may be advised under professional medical supervision. This surgical procedure removes severely damaged or non-restorable teeth from the alveolar bone. The reference cost is generally 200–1,500 yuan per tooth, with improvement typically observed within half an hour. However, possible complications include bleeding or infection.

4. Pulpitis

Pulpitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections affecting the dental pulp. Inflammatory substances may spread through dentinal tubules into the hard tooth structure, contributing to caries development. Symptoms may include severe tooth pain, swollen and red gums, and fever. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as azithromycin tablets, acetaminophen tablets, and diazepam tablets.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes may result from a combination of genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyle, immune dysfunction, viral infections, and aging. Patients with diabetes have elevated blood glucose levels, which also increases sugar content in saliva. This excess glucose provides nutrients for bacteria, promoting their proliferation and acid production, thereby increasing the risk of caries. Typical symptoms of diabetes may include increased thirst, hunger, urination, and weight loss. Patients should take medications such as glibenclamide tablets, metformin hydrochloride tablets, and acarbose tablets as prescribed by their doctor.

It is recommended to visit a reputable medical facility and undergo procedures under the guidance of qualified professionals to ensure effectiveness and safety. Daily attention to oral hygiene—including regular brushing, flossing, avoiding frequent intake of sugary and high-carbohydrate foods, maintaining a balanced diet, and drinking sufficient water to keep the mouth moist—can significantly reduce the risk of dental caries and promote overall oral health.