Tooth decay (dental caries) is the most common dental disease and one of the most widespread conditions in humans. Its primary cause is dental plaque—a colorless, sticky film that continuously forms on the teeth. Plaque is the product of bacterial growth and metabolism and becomes more abundant with the frequent intake of soft, sticky foods rich in sugar (e.g., sweets, white bread). In contrast, firm and fresh foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grain bread) help reduce plaque buildup due to their texture and mechanical properties. However, the most significant contributing factor remains poor oral hygiene.
Stages of Tooth Decay Development
- Bacteria in plaque feed on sugars from food, producing acids that weaken and damage tooth tissue, turning it into softened, decayed tissue.
- Removing this decayed tissue leaves a cavity in the tooth—referred to as a carious lesion.
- The first visible sign of decay is often a change in tooth color at the affected site. This is known as enamel caries.
- In this early stage, the tooth surface remains intact, making it easy for a dentist to identify during a routine check-up.
- If untreated, the decay progresses deeper into the tooth, affecting the dentin—manifesting as a cavity and sometimes causing sensitivity to heat, cold, or sweet foods.
- Without treatment, the infection may reach the pulp (tooth nerve), leading to pulpitis—an inflammatory condition marked by severe spontaneous pain.
- Over time, the infected pulp may transmit the infection through the root canal into the jawbone, resulting in apical periodontitis.
Consequences of Untreated Tooth Decay
What begins as harmless enamel caries can evolve into a serious condition affecting not just the tooth but surrounding tissues. This includes acute and chronic complications such as:
- Abscesses
- Granulomas
- Cysts
- Gangrene
These processes, when untreated, can damage overall health. They become persistent sources of infection (focal lesions) with systemic impact. Resulting conditions—called consecutive diseases—may affect various organs and systems:
| Affected System | Possible Conditions |
|---|---|
| Cardiovascular | Myocarditis, endocarditis, arrhythmias, palpitations, tachycardia |
| Dermatological | Alopecia areata, acne vulgaris, eczema, allergic skin conditions |
| Respiratory | Allergic rhinitis, Quincke’s edema |
| Ocular | Iritis, iridocyclitis, episcleritis |
| Musculoskeletal | Rheumatoid arthritis, polyarthritis, spondylitis, myalgia |
| Renal | Nephritis, cystitis |
| Digestive | Colitis, appendicitis |