Show #374 Airing Sunday, February 11, 2007
With Valentine’s Day and those tempting boxes of candy just around the corner, we figured it was time to “brush up” on tooth decay. Here to give us the unsugarcoated truth about sweets and our teeth is a sweet man, Dr. Steven Marsh.
Question: Is it really that important for us to brush our teeth after eating our Valentine's Day candy this week?
Answer: Yes. When sugar combines with the bacteria found in the mouth, it creates an acid that can eat away at the tooth's enamel.
When you eat candy, or any sugar/starch, it causes an acid attack that lasts about 20 minutes.
QUestion: What are some signs that teeth are decayed?
Answer: Tooth decay can really be compared to a decayed fruit. Like a fruit, when decayed, the tooth changes in color, texture (it becomes softer), and/or odor.
The symptom patients almost always have is pain or sensitivity.
Question: How can a dentist confirm that a tooth is decayed?
Answer: The main way dentists can tell if a tooth is decayed is by texture. Traditionally, an explorer is used. This instrument, with a pointed edge, can indicate if a tooth has become soft. X-rays of decayed teeth show a grain-like texture that isn't seen in normal teeth.
More recent technologies have given the dentist additional tools to determine decay. A Diagnodent tests the density of a tooth. And dye can coat the tooth, changing color if decay is present. (The dye can be especially helpful when a dentist is ensuring he/she has removed all the decay).
Question: Where is decay most common?
Answer: Two major areas are common for decay-in between teeth, and the chewing surface of the back teeth.
Question: What is done about decay?
Answer: The dentist cleans out the decay and then rebuilds the tooth. If the decay covered a small area, it could be filled with a composite, tooth-colored filling. If the tooth needs more support, a crown is used.
b.) Before and after-bad decay
c.) Before and after-replaced old silver fillings
There's no way to sweet talk your way out of tooth decay. Give Dr. Marsh a call for more information or free newsletter. You'll even see my smiling face on the back cover!
