Dental cavities are infections caused by a combination of carbohydrate-containing foods and bacteria that live in our mouths. The bacteria are contained in a film that constantly forms on and around our teeth. We call this film plaque. Although there are many different types of bacteria in our mouth, few are associated with cavities. Some of the most common is Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus casei and acidophilus, and Actinomyces naeslundii. When these bacteria find carbohydrates, eat them and produce acid. Exposure causes acidic pH on the surface of the tooth to drop. Before the meal, the pH of the mouth, is about 6.2 to 7.0, slightly more acidic than water. If a "fresh food" and other carbohydrates are eaten, the pH drops. At pH 5.2 to 5.5 or lower, acid starts dissolving the hard enamel that forms the outer packaging of our teeth. Each issue of food acid, which attack the teeth about 20 minutes!

Symptoms or signs

Most cavities are discovered in the early stages during routine inspections. The surface of the tooth may be soft when probed with a sharp instrument. Pain may be present until the advanced stages of caries. Dental x-rays may show some cavities before they are visible on eye.In advanced stages of caries of the teeth may occur, especially after eating sweet, hot or cold foods or beverages. Other signs of tooth decay are visible pits or holes in the teeth.


A person experiences a fault are not aware of the disease .The process is reversible, but once the cavity forms, lost tooth structure it can not be regenerated. Lesions, which appears brown and shiny proposed caries was also present, but the demineralization process has stopped, so the spot. Brown stain, a matte appearance, probably by active caries.

As the enamel and dentin are destroyed, the cavity is more pronounced. Affected areas of the tooth change color and becomes soft. Once the decay passes through enamel, dentin tubules become the passage of the tooth nerve, exposed and cause a toothache. Pain may worsen when exposed to heat, cold or sweet foods and beverages. Caries can also cause bad breath and bad taste. , in the case of very advanced, disseminated infection of the tooth to the surrounding soft tissue. Complications such as cavernous sinus thrombosis and Ludwig angina can be life threatening.