One problem that plagues this nation is tooth decay. Tooth decay is the process of the demineralization of the tooth, or where the hard parts of the tooth are rotted away to the soft part which can lead to sensitivity and cavities in the mouth.

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria latch themselves onto the tooth, and create a film, or biofilm. This is the early stage of plaque. At this point, it can be scratched off the teeth by a fingernail, or if using proper dental hygiene, a toothbrush. After ten days of this initial layer of buildup happening, it is encrusted on, and more bacteria starts to attach itself to the first layer. The first layer becomes a colonization layer, and it is bonding with the outside of the tooth. At this point, it is important to see a dentist, so that the plaque can be removed. At Milpitas Dental, this can be done by scheduling a cleaning. If a cleaning isn’t scheduled, and proper dental hygiene doesn’t occur, other health problems in the mouth will happen.

To begin with, this leads to cavities. Cavities are holes that occur in the tooth where the hard layer has rotted away by plaque, exposing the soft inner layers, called dentin, to this bacterial infection. The simplest way of dealing with cavities, in their early stage, is to drill them out using a drill, or using air abrasion. This will carve out the rotted area of the tooth, leaving behind the healthy area. It will be filled in using composite resin, so that the tooth looks and functions normally. This is a simple process that can be done by a Milpitas family dentist. After the area of decay is gone, it will lead to a healthier mouth and a brighter smile.