
Although levels have decreased over the last few decades, tooth decay is still one of the most widespread health problems in the UK.
In fact, it’s estimated that one in every three adults in England has tooth decay. A survey carried out in 2012 also found that one in four five-year old children had some degree of tooth decay.
Book AppointmentDental decay has many symptoms but these often go unnoticed when the sufferer doesn’t experience any pain. Some obvious signs to look out for are: continuous toothache or a sudden sharp pain without an obvious cause; sensitivity when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet; grey, brown or black spots on your teeth; bad breath, or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
This will depend on at what stage the decay has been detected. If early on, reducing sugary foods and drinks and brushing regularly using a fluoride tooth paste may prevent the decay from developing.
If decay has been spotted later on and you have a hole in your tooth, further treatment may be required, such as a filling, crown; root canal treatment, or the removal of the tooth. The gap can then be either restored with a bridge, denture or implant. Our dentist in London would do a thorough assessment of your teeth to see which treatment would be best to help you.
The primary causes are sugary, sticky foods and drinks. Sugar combines with the plaque on your teeth and weakens its enamel, leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay. Decay is also enabled by a lack of proper dental care – i.e. brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day.
Not at all. Our cameras and x-ray machines at Crescent Lodge Dental Practice in Clapham Common, are non-invasive, meaning you will experience no pain.
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