Guide to tOOTH decay

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay (dental caries) is damage to the tooth’s enamel caused by acids from plaque bacteria and is one of many common dental problems. Without treatment, decay progresses into dentine and the nerve (pulp), leading to pain, infection, and possible tooth loss.

Signs you might have decay

• Sensitivity to cold, sweet, or hot foods and drinks

• Pain when chewing or biting

• Visible pits, holes, chips, or dark spots

• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste

• Food catching between teeth

What causes tooth decay?

• Frequent sugars and acids (soft drinks, juices, sweets, sports and energy drinks)

• Inadequate plaque removal (rushed brushing, no interdental cleaning)

• Dry mouth (medications, mouth breathing, dehydration)

• Deep grooves, failing fillings, cracks that trap plaque

• Lifestyle factors (smoking, frequent snacking)

Who’s at higher risk?

Children and teens, people with dry mouth, orthodontic patients, smokers, those with high-sugar diets, and anyone who’s irregular with dental visits.

Stages of decay (at a glance)

1. Early enamel demineralisation – reversible with fluoride and habit changes.

2. Cavitated enamel/dentine decay – needs a filling or conservative restoration.

3. Pulp involvement – infection/inflammation of the nerve; may require root canal therapy.

4. Abscess/structural failure – may need root canal plus a crown, or extraction and replacement.

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How to prevent tooth decay

At home

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste; use a soft brush angled to the gumline.

• Clean between teeth daily (floss or interdental brushes sized to your spaces).

• Keep sugary or acidic foods and drinks to mealtimes; sip water between meals.

• Manage dry mouth with saliva-supportive products and hydration.

In the clinic

• Regular check-ups and professional scale and cleans to remove tartar and catch early changes.

• Personalised preventative dentistry (topical fluoride, desensitisers, home-care coaching).

• Fissure sealants for deep grooves in back teeth when indicated.

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How dentists fix tooth decay (by severity)

Early decay (no cavity yet)

• Professional risk assessment, fluoride applications, remineralisation strategies, diet coaching, and targeted home-care changes—usually part of a preventative treatment plan.

Small–medium cavities

• Tooth-coloured fillings or conservative restorations to remove decay and seal the tooth. For moderate damage, inlays/onlays may be recommended.

Large cavities or cracked teeth

• Dental crowns protect weakened teeth from further fracture and restore function and appearance.

Decay reaching the nerve (pulp)

• Root canal treatment removes inflamed or infected tissue, disinfects the canals, and seals the tooth; a crown is commonly advised afterward for long-term strength.

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When to book an appointment

• Sensitivity that lingers, pain on chewing, a visible hole or chip, or food trapping between teeth

• You’re overdue for a check-up and clean

Tip: Early care is simpler, more comfortable, and more affordable.