General Dentistry
September 17, 2025
Caries, commonly known as tooth decay or cavities, is a progressive dental disease that damages the tooth structure. If untreated, caries can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss, making it a serious concern for oral health worldwide.
Harmful bacteria accumulate on teeth forming sticky plaque.
Bacteria feed on sugars and carbs, producing acids.
Acids from bacteria dissolve tooth enamel, leading to decay.
Infrequent brushing and flossing allow plaque buildup.
Saliva helps neutralize acids; less saliva increases risk.
Constant exposure to sugars and acids prevents enamel recovery.
Some people naturally have less resistant enamel.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay.
Genetics can influence susceptibility to caries.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When not removed, it produces acids that erode enamel, starting the caries process.
Harmful bacteria metabolize sugars into acids, which demineralize the tooth’s hard surface, leading to decay.
Frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods feeds bacteria and lowers mouth pH, accelerating enamel breakdown.
Yes. Neglecting brushing and flossing allows plaque buildup, increasing caries risk.
It allows bacteria to thrive, creating an acidic environment that attacks teeth.
Early caries can go unnoticed and worsen without professional diagnosis and intervention.
Genetics can influence enamel strength and saliva composition, affecting susceptibility to caries.
Occur on the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars)
Common in areas with deep grooves or pits
Found on the flat, smooth sides of teeth
Often develop between teeth where flossing is missed
Affect the root surfaces of teeth, especially in people with gum recession
More common in older adults
Develop around existing fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations
Caused by poor margins or residual plaque
Widespread, rapidly progressing decay
Often seen in children or adults with poor oral hygiene, high sugar intake, or dry mouth
Affects infants and toddlers, especially from prolonged bottle-feeding with sugary liquid
These occur in the grooves on chewing surfaces, where food tends to get trapped.
Decay appearing on the flat surfaces of teeth, often between teeth.
Decay affecting exposed roots, common in older adults with gum recession.
Recurrent caries develop around existing fillings or crowns, unlike primary caries which are new lesions.
Early demineralization of enamel
Especially to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks
Occasional or spontaneous pain without clear cause
Tiny openings on the surface of the tooth
Brown, black, or chalky white areas on the tooth
Caused by bacterial activity in decaying areas
Change in texture felt with the tongue or when brushing
Early decay often causes mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
White spots, brown or black discoloration, or small holes on the tooth surface.
Yes, bacterial activity in decayed teeth can cause persistent bad breath.
| Diagnostic Method | Purpose & Use |
|---|---|
| Visual-Tactile Exam | Initial detection of visible lesions or enamel defects |
| Probe Examination (blunt explorer) | Identifies sticky or softened areas without causing damage |
| Panoramic X-ray | Broad overview common extraoral imaging tool |
| Periapical / Bite-wing X-rays | Focused detection, particularly for early interproximal caries |
| Intraoral Camera | High-resolution imaging for early-stage detection and patient education |
| CBCT (3D Imaging) | Used in complex cases for detailed anatomical assessment |
| AI-supported diagnostics | Emerging tools to boost detection accuracy and speed |
X-rays reveal decay between teeth and beneath restorations invisible to the naked eye.
Yes, it detects early decay by measuring tooth fluorescence changes.
Clinical exams and diagnostic tools help distinguish harmless stains from decay.
Oral Hygiene Habits
Diet and Nutrition
Fluoride Use
Dental Sealants
Regular Dental Visits
Manage Dry Mouth
Address Risk Factors
They remove plaque and food particles, reducing acid production.
Fluoride-containing toothpaste strengthens enamel and fights decay.
Every 3 months or sooner if bristles are frayed.
Professional fluoride applications remineralizer enamel and make teeth more resistant to acid.
Yes, sealants cover grooves and fissures to block bacteria and food debris.
Eating nutrient-rich foods supports healthy teeth and limits sugar intake.
For early-stage enamel demineralization
Helps remineralizer the tooth surface
For small to moderate cavities
Decay is removed and filled with materials like composite resin or amalgam
Used for larger cavities that don’t require a full crown
Custom-made restorations bonded to the tooth
For extensive decay or weakened teeth
A cap covers and protects the remaining tooth
Needed when decay reaches the tooth pulp (nerve)
Involves cleaning, disinfecting, and sealing the root canal
Done when the tooth is too damaged to be saved
May be followed by a dental implant or bridge
Fluoride applications, sealants, and oral hygiene instructions to prevent recurrence
Decayed tissue is removed, and the cavity is filled with composite or amalgam to restore tooth integrity.
When decay reaches the tooth’s pulp causing infection or severe pain.
Crowns protect and strengthen teeth with extensive decay or after root canal treatment.
Extraction or apicoectomy might be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.
| Treatment Type | Advanced Technique Highlights |
|---|---|
| Laser Dentistry | No-touch decay removal, less pain, strong disinfection |
| Adhesive Restorations (Inlay/Onlay) | Preserves more tooth, esthetic and functional |
| Vital Pulp Therapy / RCT | Pulp-saving where possible; root canal when needed |
| Preventive Treatments | SDF, fissure sealants, high‑fluoride varnish, hydroxyapatite pastes |
| Vitrin Clinic Services | Laser dentistry, endodontics, conservative cosmetic restorations |
Lasers allow precise, minimally invasive removal of decay with less pain and faster healing.
Yes, approaches like air abrasion and remineralization are increasingly favored.
Turkey offers high-quality care at a fraction of European costs, making it a popular dental tourism destination.
Untreated dental caries (tooth decay) can lead to several serious complications, including:
Tooth Pain and Sensitivity
Tooth Infection (Abscess)
Spread of Infection
Tooth Fracture or Loss
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Chewing and Eating Problems
Speech Difficulties
Aesthetic and Social Impact
Systemic Health Issues
Heart disease
Diabetes complications
Respiratory infections
Preterm birth (in pregnant women)
Yes. Untreated decay can destroy the tooth structure, leading to extraction.
It can cause infections, gum disease, and affect chewing and speech.
Severe infections can spread and impact heart health, diabetes control, and more.
| Factor | Children | Adults |
|---|---|---|
| Enamel Thickness | Thin → Fast decay | Thicker → Slower progression |
| Tooth Type | Baby teeth | Permanent teeth |
| Common Caries Type | ECC, pit & fissure caries | Root caries, recurrent decay |
| Contributing Factors | Diet, poor hygiene, bottle feeding | Dry mouth, restorations, aging gums |
| Treatment Focus | Prevention & education | Repair, restoration, long-term care |
Children’s teeth are more susceptible due to thinner enamel and dietary habits.
Adults may experience root caries and slower progression due to saliva changes.
Yes, severe decay in baby teeth can impact the development and alignment of permanent teeth.
Sugar Intake Fuels Bacteria
Frequency Matters More Than Quantity
Sticky & Processed Foods Are High-Risk
Sugary and Acidic Beverages
Poor Nutrition Affects Oral Health
Water Helps Protect Teeth
Protective Dietary Habits
Frequent sugar intake feeds harmful bacteria producing enamel-eroding acids.
Yes, constant snacking keeps acid levels high, increasing decay risk.
Fluoridated water strengthens enamel and reduces decay in populations.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Alcohol Consumption
Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Dietary Choices
Sleep and Stress
Medication Use
General Health and Physical Activity
Positive Lifestyle Choices to Reduce Caries Risk
Both dry out the mouth and impair healing, promoting decay.
Stress may reduce saliva flow and weaken immune response, increasing vulnerability.
Their high sugar and acidity levels increase enamel erosion and decay risk.
Minimally Invasive and Preventive Care
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Regenerative Dentistry
Smart Dental Materials
Laser and Photodynamic Therapy
Personalized Oral Care
Tele-dentistry and Remote Monitoring
Public Health and Education Innovations
AI helps analyze X-rays for early decay detection with high accuracy.
Emerging techniques aim to regenerate enamel and dentin naturally.
Yes, they offer targeted therapies for enamel repair and decay prevention.
[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”What Is the Difference Between Caries and Cavities?” answer-0=”Caries is the process of tooth decay, while cavities are the holes formed as a result.” image-0=”” headline-1=”h3″ question-1=”Can Caries Heal Without Treatment?” answer-1=”Early-stage caries may be reversed with fluoride and good oral care, but advanced decay requires treatment.” image-1=”” headline-2=”h3″ question-2=”How Long Does It Take for Caries to Develop?” answer-2=”Caries can develop over months or years depending on oral hygiene and diet.” image-2=”” headline-3=”h3″ question-3=”Are Caries Contagious Between People?” answer-3=”Caries-causing bacteria can be transferred, especially from parents to children.” image-3=”” headline-4=”h3″ question-4=”Is Caries Treatment Painful?” answer-4=”Modern dentistry uses anesthesia making treatment comfortable.” image-4=”” headline-5=”h3″ question-5=”How Much Does Caries Treatment Cost in Turkey?” answer-5=”Costs vary by treatment type but are generally affordable compared to Europe and the US.” image-5=”” headline-6=”h3″ question-6=”Can Caries Return After Treatment?” answer-6=”Yes, if oral hygiene and diet are not maintained.” image-6=”” headline-7=”h3″ question-7=”What Is the Best Way to Protect Children from Caries?” answer-7=”Regular dental visits, proper brushing, limiting sugar, and fluoride treatments.” image-7=”” headline-8=”h3″ question-8=”How Do Dentists Decide Between Fillings and Root Canals for Caries?” answer-8=”Depends on decay depth and pulp involvement; root canal if infection reaches the nerve.” image-8=”” headline-9=”h3″ question-9=”Is Laser Dentistry a Permanent Solution for Caries?” answer-9=”Laser treatment is effective but requires good oral hygiene to prevent recurrence.” image-9=”” count=”10″ html=”true” css_class=””]
O Dr. Faisal Kayali possui mais de 7 anos de experiência clínica e faz parte atualmente da equipe médica da Vitrin Clinic.
