01
How Does Tooth Decay Form?
For decay to develop, four factors must be present at the same time:
- Bacteria (principally Streptococcus mutans)
- Sugars or carbohydrates (the food source for bacteria)
- Time (how long plaque sits on the tooth)
- A susceptible tooth surface (weakened enamel)
02
The Stages of Tooth Decay
Stage 1: Demineralisation (White-Spot Lesion)
- Mineral loss begins in the enamel surface
- White or chalky spots become visible
- No pain
- Reversible at this stage — remineralisation with fluoride is possible
Stage 2: Enamel Decay
- The enamel layer is breached (a cavity forms)
- Usually painless
- Treatment: a filling
Stage 3: Dentine Decay
- Decay reaches the dentine
- Sensitivity to hot and cold, mild pain
- Treatment: a filling or inlay
Stage 4: Pulp Involvement
- Decay reaches the nerve and blood vessels
- Severe, throbbing pain
- Treatment: root canal treatment plus a crown
Stage 5: Abscess
- Infection spreads to the root tip
- Swelling, fever, pus
- Treatment: antibiotics plus root canal treatment or extraction
- More detail: dental abscess treatment
03
10 Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
1. Brush Twice a Day
- Fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush
- At least 2 minutes, covering every surface
- After breakfast and before bed
2. Floss Once a Day
- Cleans the interdental areas your brush cannot reach
- The single most effective step against between-the-teeth decay
- See our guide on proper tooth brushing techniques
3. Use Fluoride
- Fluoride toothpaste (1450 ppm)
- Fluoride mouthrinse (for extra protection)
- Professional fluoride varnish (every 6 months)
4. Professional Cleaning
- A scale and polish every 6 months
- Prevents plaque and tartar build-up
- Allows early detection of decay
5. Limit Sugary Foods
- Between meals, choose cheese, nuts or vegetables rather than sweets
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks
- Avoid sticky sweets (toffees, chewy sweets)
6. Drink Plenty of Water
- Prevents dry mouth
- Rinses away bacteria and acid
- The best between-meal drink
7. Fissure Sealants (for Children)
- A thin coating applied to the grooves on the biting surfaces of the back teeth
- Reduces decay risk by around 80%
- Recommended between the ages of 6 and 12
8. Regular Dental Check-Ups
- An examination every 6 months
- Early detection means a small filling is enough
- Delay means root canal treatment and higher cost
9. Manage Dry Mouth
- Drink plenty of water
- Sugar-free gum (stimulates saliva)
- Speak to your doctor if a medication is the cause
10. Balanced Diet
- Calcium (milk, cheese) — for tooth mineralisation
- Vitamin C (fruit, vegetables) — for gum health
- Phosphorus (meat, eggs, fish) — strengthens enamel
04
Treatment of Decayed Teeth
Treatment depends on the stage of decay:
| Stage | Treatment | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| White-spot lesion | Fluoride | Included in check-up |
| Enamel decay | Small filling | 1,500–2,000 TL |
| Dentine decay | Filling or inlay | 1,500–8,000 TL |
| Pulp involvement | Root canal treatment plus crown | 8,000–20,000 TL |
| Abscess | Antibiotics plus root canal / extraction | 3,000–20,000 TL |
💡 Early treatment = lower cost. Fluoride is enough at the white-spot stage; by the abscess stage costs can reach 20,000 TL.
05
References
- Selwitz RH, Ismail AI, Pitts NB. Dental caries. Lancet. 2007;369(9555):51-59. PubMed
- World Health Organization. Global Oral Health Status Report: Towards Universal Health Coverage for Oral Health by 2030. Geneva: WHO; 2022. who.int
- Marinho VC, Worthington HV, Walsh T, Clarkson JE. Fluoride varnishes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(7):CD002279. PubMed
Regular dental check-ups are the most effective way to prevent decay. Book your 6-monthly check-up at Derya Dental Clinic in Maltepe.
📞 0216 572 05 20 💬 WhatsApp appointment
Related Treatment Pages
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a specialist for decisions about your oral and dental health.
