Tooth decay is an extremely common health condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. Most cases of decay are caused by poor oral hygiene and a diet that is high in sugary and acidic foods and drinks.

Tooth decay may contribute to the formation of cavities as the enamel surface wears away and exposes the softer dentin potion of the tooth; this can be prevented by regularly brushing the teeth, which removes plaque from the mouth. Cavities can be treated using restorations, including fillings, but if the decay is left untreated it may cause very deep cavities which cannot be filled and may result in the patient needing root canal treatment or extraction.

In order to prevent tooth decay, Kent dentists recommend brushing the teeth twice a day, flossing daily and using antibacterial mouthwash. It is also important to eat healthily and limit the amount of sugary foods and fizzy drinks, as these weaken the enamel surface of the teeth. Patients should visit their dentist on a regular basis so that dentists can monitor their oral health and identify early warning signs of tooth decay.

Promoting oral hygiene is an integral part of jobs in dentistry; if people adopt good oral hygiene habits, they are much less likely to need complex dental treatment further down the line.