305-307 Borough High St, 
TOOTH DECAY
Tooth decay occurs when acids break down and dissolve the enamel and dentine of your teeth. This process is caused by bacteria in plaque reacting with carbohydrates from food and drinks, producing an acid that damages the tooth surface. Over time, this leads to cavities (holes) forming in the tooth.
If left untreated, tooth decay can worsen, potentially leading to abscesses, severe pain, and the need for tooth extraction. This can result in bone loss, changes to the shape of your mouth, difficulties with eating and speaking, and even an aged appearance.
At Borough Dental Care, we provide expert treatment for tooth decay to restore your oral health and prevent further damage.
020 7407 3883
ABOUT DENTAL DECAY TREATMENT
Your mouth naturally hosts millions of bacteria, which form plaque—a thin, sticky film on your teeth and gums. Plaque uses sugars from food and drink to produce acids that erode the enamel, eventually creating cavities.
Once decay reaches the dentine, which is softer than enamel, it progresses more rapidly, making treatment essential. While sugar is a major factor in decay, other contributors include:
- Reduced Saliva Flow: Saliva acts as a natural defence by neutralising acids. Reduced salivary flow can increase the risk of decay.
- Deep Fissures: Grooves on the biting surfaces of teeth can trap food and are difficult to clean, promoting decay.
- Poorly Fitting Dental Work: Overhanging fillings, crowns, or dentures can lead to food packing and increased decay.
INVISIBLE FILLINGS
Traditional metal fillings, such as silver amalgam, have largely been replaced by invisible fillings made of composite materials. These modern fillings are carefully colour-matched to your teeth for a natural appearance, ensuring a seamless, brighter smile.
BENEFITS OF INVISIBLE FILLINGS
- Strength: Invisible fillings restore 85–95% of your tooth’s natural strength, improving oral health.
- Safety: Free from mercury, they are a safer alternative to traditional fillings.
- Aesthetics: They blend seamlessly with your teeth, maintaining your smile’s natural beauty.
PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY
Preventing tooth decay is easier than treating it. By making small changes to your routine, you can protect your teeth and overall oral health:
- Use Fluoride: Fluoride strengthens enamel and can help reverse early stages of decay.
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Limit refined sugars like sucrose and glucose. Opt for alternatives such as xylitol, which has been shown to reduce decay.
- Practice Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use mouthwash to target areas brushing may miss.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine visits to Borough Dental Care help catch and treat decay early.
WHEN TO CONSIDER TREATMENT
If decay progresses to the dentine, the affected area must be removed and replaced with a filling. At Borough Dental Care, our experts use invisible fillings to stop decay and restore your smile while ensuring your teeth look and feel natural.
Take control of your oral health and prevent further complications by addressing tooth decay early.