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Dental Caries (Tooth Decay)

Most common chronic disease worldwide caused by bacterial fermentation of dietary carbohydrates leading to progressive demineralization of tooth structure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Dental Caries (Tooth Decay)?

Dental caries is a dynamic process of demineralization-remineralization of tooth structure caused by the metabolic activity of cariogenic biofilm. Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus and Actinomyces species ferment dietary carbohydrates (especially sucrose) producing organic acids (lactic, acetic) that lower plaque pH below 5.5, dissolving enamel hydroxyapatite.

The disease progresses through stages: incipient lesion (white spot, reversible), enamel caries (cavitation), dentin caries (rapid spread due to higher organic content), and pulpal involvement (pulpitis, necrosis). Caries can be classified by location (occlusal, smooth surface, root, recurrent) and rate (acute/rampant vs chronic).

Risk factors include high sugar consumption frequency, poor oral hygiene, low salivary flow (xerostomia), inadequate fluoride exposure, deep pits and fissures, orthodontic appliances and socioeconomic factors. Diagnosis combines visual-tactile examination, radiography (bitewing, periapical), laser fluorescence (DIAGNOdent), digital imaging fiber optic transillumination (DIFOTI) and ICDAS classification system.

Symptoms

White or brown spots on tooth surface (early)
Visible cavity or pit in tooth
Tooth sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet foods
Toothache, especially when biting
Bad breath (halitosis)
Visible holes or pits in teeth
Pain on chewing or pressure
Spontaneous pain (advanced — pulpal involvement)

Risk Factors

High sugar/carbohydrate consumption frequency
Poor oral hygiene and irregular brushing
Inadequate fluoride exposure
Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Frequent snacking and sugary beverages
Deep pits and fissures
Orthodontic appliances
Socioeconomic disadvantage

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Visible discoloration or hole in tooth
  • Tooth sensitivity to temperature or sweets
  • Pain on biting or chewing
  • Bad breath despite hygiene
  • Routine 6-month dental check-up
  • Spontaneous toothache (urgent)
  • Dental abscess or facial swelling (emergency)
  • Trauma to teeth requiring evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Topical fluoride varnish for early lesions
02
Composite resin or amalgam restoration for cavities
03
Inlays/onlays for larger restorations
04
Crown for extensive tooth structure loss
05
Root canal treatment for pulpal involvement
06
Tooth extraction if non-restorable
07
Sealants for prevention of pit and fissure caries
08
Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Diş Çürüğü

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Diş çürüğü, ağız bakterilerinin şekeri fermente ederek ürettiği asitlerin diş minesi, dentin ve pulpayı tahrip etmesiyle oluşan kronik bir hastalıktır.

Diş Eti Hastalıkları (Periodontal Hastalıklar)

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Periodontal hastalıklar, diş eti (gingivit) ve diş çevresindeki kemik ile bağ dokusunun (periodontit) bakteri kaynaklı iltihabıdır; tedavi edilmezse diş kaybına neden olur.

Impacted Tooth

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An impacted tooth — most often a wisdom tooth — has not erupted fully and remains in the jaw bone or gum. It can lead to pericoronitis, caries and cysts.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge or denture, providing the closest possible function and aesthetics to a natural tooth.

Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

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Halitosis is a chronic problem that affects a substantial part of the population. It is most often of oral origin and can interfere with social interactions.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.