Dental Caries

caries is a dental disease caused by microbial infection, resulting in demineralization and destruction of the hard tissues of the teeth. The main mechanism is that the bacteria in the mouth metabolize the sugar in the food and produce acidic substances, which corrode the enamel and dentin. Unlike dental caries in children, dental caries in adults usually involves the surface of the crown and root of the tooth and can lead to more serious health problems, including toothache, loss of teeth, etc. Dental caries in adults, if left untreated, can also affect masticatory function and overall oral health, negatively affecting quality of life.

caries

dental caries mainly include the following aspects: first, dietary habits. Frequent intake of fermentable carbohydrates (especially sucrose) and acidic food and beverages (citrus fruits, soda and wine) can lead to enamel demineralization. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as incorrect brushing methods and lack of flossing, can easily lead to the accumulation of plaque and the formation of dental caries (Marsh & Martin, 2009;Axelsson, 2004). Secondly, poor lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption can reduce saliva production and affect the oral microbiota, increasing the risk of dental caries (Reibel, 2003). Studies have shown that dry mouth and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) caused by drugs or Sjogren's syndrome also significantly increase the risk of dental caries (Sreebny & Valdini, 1987;Barron, Carmichael, & Marcon, 2003). Some factors include genetic factors and medical treatment effects, such as head and neck radiation therapy in cancer treatment and some drugs (antihistamines, antihypertensive drugs and antidepressants) can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental caries (Fejerskov & Nyvad, 2003;Lussi & Hellwig, 2012;Shuler, 2001;Vissink et al., 2003;Sreebny & Schwartz, 1997).

treatment of dental caries:

adults mainly includes restoration, correction and replacement.

common restorative procedures, such as filling, use restorative materials such as composite resins or silver amalgam to fill the cavity, restore the shape and function of the tooth, prevent further expansion of the caries, and restore masticatory efficiency. When the tooth is severely damaged, the entire tooth surface can be filled with a crown cover. The crown protects the remaining tooth structure, provides strength and aesthetics, and is usually made of ceramic, metal or resin. For larger and irregularly shaped cavities, more inlays and veneers are used, mainly for aesthetic restoration (Summitt, Robbins, Hilton, Schwartz, & Dos Santos, 2006).

in some cases, orthodontic treatment may also be necessary to correct malpositioned jaws and misaligned teeth, reducing plaque accumulation and the risk of dental caries. For cases of loss of teeth due to severe caries, dental implants and dentures are the restoration of oral function and the prevention of further dental problems (Proffit, Fields, & Sarver, 2012; Misch, 2008).

In summary, adult dental caries not only affects oral health, but may also cause a series of systemic problems. Therefore, timely and effective prevention and treatment is essential. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits, a reasonable diet and regular dental check-ups, you can significantly reduce the risk of dental caries and ensure the long-term health of your teeth.