Tooth Decay Dental caries - An overview
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Author:
Dr. Suhail Latoo
Speaker
Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology,
Govt. Dental school, Sgr
Co-authors:
Prof. (Dr.) Riyaz Farooq
Head,
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics,
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
Dr. Ajaz Shah A
Associate Professor and Director,
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
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Dr. Amir Rashid Purr
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics,
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
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Kaul Dr. Rudra
Postgraduate Scholar
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics,
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
Mr. Ullah Shafai Khateeb
Department of conservative dentistry and endodontics
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
Dr. Shazia Qadir
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
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Mr. Babar Ali Shah
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Govt. Dental school, Sgr
Altaf Malik HM
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Govt. Dental school, Sgr
Mr. Mubashir Mushtaq
Department of conservative dentistry and endodontics
Govt. Dental College, Sgr.
Dr Ali Aashiq
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial
Govt. Dental school, Sgr
Dental caries - An overview
Summary
Dental caries is a pandemic disease affecting individuals of almost all age groups. It is a multifactorial disease, irreversible microbial calcified tissues of teeth characterized by demineralization of the inorganic and organic substance destruction of the tooth, which often leads to cavitation. It involves complex and dynamic process with a multitude of factors that influence and initiate the progression of the disease. Although effective methods are known for the prevention and management of dental caries, it is a major health problem affecting mankind, in that its manifestations persist throughout life despite treatment. In this presentation, we discuss etiopathogensis, mode of presentation, diagnostic tests and various modes of treatment of dental caries.
Introduction:
Dental caries (tooth decay) is one of the most common of all disorders, second only to colds. It usually occurs in children and young adults but can affect any person. It is a common cause of tooth loss among young people.
The bacteria are normally present in the mouth. Bacteria convert food especially sugar and starch into acids. Bacteria, acid, food debris and saliva in the mouth combining to form a sticky substance called plaque that adheres to teeth. If this plaque is not removed thoroughly and routinely, tooth decay will not only begin, but flourish. Acids dissolve the enamel of the tooth and create holes in the teeth (cavities). Cavities are usually painless, until they reach very large and affect nerves or cause a tooth fracture. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can develop. Untreated tooth decay also destroys the internal structures of the tooth (pulp) and Ultimat.
Posted on February 1, 2010.