What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay happens when the hard surface of a tooth becomes damaged, leading to small holes known as cavities. It starts when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from food and drinks, producing acids that wear down the enamel. Over time, this can affect deeper layers of the tooth if left untreated.
Tooth decay is very common and can affect people of all ages. The important thing to remember is that treatment is available, and with early care we can repair the damage and keep your smile healthy.
Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay often develops slowly, and the early signs can be easy to miss. Knowing what to look out for can help you catch it before it gets worse.
Early signs may include:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- White, brown, or dark spots on the surface of a tooth
- Small visible holes or pits
As decay progresses, you might notice:
- Ongoing toothache or sharp pain when chewing
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Chipped or broken tooth structure
It’s important to know that cavities don’t always cause pain straight away. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to spot and treat decay early.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay develops when bacteria in plaque break down food sugars and produce acids that damage tooth enamel. Several factors can increase your risk:
- Poor oral hygiene – not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to build up on teeth.
- Sugary or acidic foods and drinks – soft drinks, lollies, and even fruit juices feed bacteria and weaken enamel.
- Dry mouth – saliva helps protect your teeth by washing away food particles and neutralising acids. Reduced saliva flow can increase your risk of decay.
- Existing dental issues – crowded teeth, worn enamel, or gum problems can make it harder to clean properly, leaving areas where plaque collects.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay
The best way to avoid cavities is through simple, consistent habits:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Visit us for regular check-ups and professional cleans so we can catch early signs of decay before they cause problems.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, especially between meals.
- Choose fluoride toothpaste and rinses, which help strengthen enamel and protect against decay.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice pain, sensitivity, dark spots, or small holes in your teeth, it’s important to book a dental visit as soon as possible. Even if you’re not in pain, decay can progress silently and become harder to treat later.
Regular check-ups give us the chance to identify problems early and provide treatment before more serious issues develop.
Our Supportive Approach
At Granite Belt Dental, we understand that dealing with tooth decay can feel worrying, but you’re not alone. Our team provides gentle, personalised care to help restore your smile and keep you comfortable throughout treatment.
With clinics in Stanthorpe and Warwick, we’re here to make it easier for you to access the care you need, close to home.
