Dental Caries

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay or cavities, is one of the most widespread chronic diseases globally and in Nigeria, resulting from the gradual destruction of tooth structure by acids produced by bacteria feeding on sugars in the mouth. It can affect people of all ages, from young children with their first teeth to adults, and if left untreated, can progress from minor discomfort to severe pain, infection, and tooth loss.

• Toothache, ranging from mild sensitivity to severe pain • Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks • Visible pits, holes, or dark spots on the tooth surface • Pain when biting down • Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth • Swelling or a bump on the gum near the affected tooth (if infection has developed) • Visible staining: white, brown, or black spots on the tooth

Dental caries develops when bacteria in the mouth (particularly Streptococcus mutans) break down sugars and starches from food, producing acids that gradually dissolve the hard outer layer of the tooth (enamel). Over time, this creates cavities that can deepen and reach the inner, sensitive layers of the tooth if untreated. Contributing factors include: • Frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks • Poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque (a sticky bacterial film) to build up • Insufficient exposure to fluoride • Dry mouth, which reduces saliva's natural protective effect

• Frequent snacking on sugary or starchy foods and drinks • Inadequate brushing and flossing • Limited access to fluoridated water or toothpaste • Limited access to regular dental care • Dry mouth, from certain medications or medical conditions • Deep grooves or pits in the teeth that trap food and bacteria • Acid reflux or frequent vomiting, which exposes teeth to stomach acid • Bottle-feeding infants with sugary liquids, or prolonged nighttime bottle use

Untreated dental caries can lead to: • Toothache and significant discomfort affecting eating and sleep • Dental abscess (a pocket of infection), which can be serious if it spreads • Tooth loss • Difficulty eating and nutritional problems, especially in children • Spread of infection to the jaw, face, or, rarely, more widely in the body • Impact on speech, appearance, and self-esteem • In children, effects on the development of permanent teeth

• Brush teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth • Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals • Drink fluoridated water where available • Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning • Avoid putting infants to bed with a bottle containing milk, juice, or other sugary liquids • Consider dental sealants for children's molars, where available