Recent Discovery Offers Hope Of A Cavity-Free Future
Since the first tooth was extracted, there has been an ongoing battle to eliminate the formation of tooth decay. This began with understanding the source of this process and then working to make it a thing of the past. So what is it that is responsible for tooth decay? Behind tooth decay can be found the bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans, one of the 300 bacteria that live in our mouth. Dental science has been at war with this bacteria since before its discovery, and its identification has moved the fight forward. While changing dietary habits and increased availability of sugary foods has been a bit of a drawback, it’s still just a matter of time.
The Stages of Cavity Development
Before tooth decay could be brought to an end, it was necessary to gain a thorough understanding of how tooth decay happens. For centuries the foundation of tooth decay wasn’t well understood, and countless theories, ideas, and superstitions came and went to explain it. It wasn’t until 1924 when a scientist by the name of J. Clark discovered streptococcus mutans and its central role in the formation of dental decay. Research immediately began to help understand how this bacteria caused tooth decay, and the following stages were revealed:
- White Spots Formations: The formation of white spots in previously clear enamel is a cause for concern. It means that the enamel coating is becoming demineralized, which creates thin spots that can be taken advantage of by mutans.
- Enamel Degradation: Enamel that has been experiencing mineral loss is more likely to experience damage from decay. The resulting thinning of the enamel ultimately will reveal the dentin layer underneath.
- Dentin Decay: The exposure of dentin means this softer, porous material is now exposed to damage. The mutans bacteria dig into the dentin and lead to the formation of dark spots and deep cavities that can result in acid, pressure, and temperature sensitivity.
- Pulp Infections: The decay of dentin ultimately leads to an opening to the inner pulp being formed. Pain at this point can become intense, and the tooth itself is in danger of having to be extracted. Root canals become necessary at this point.
- Formation of Abscesses: As the infection deepens, abscesses form in the gums. These pockets of pus can endanger the jawbone, your teeth and even pose a threat to your life. Over time the jawbone can erode, and if the bacteria passes into your bloodstream, your life could be in danger.
Streptococcus mutans is the primary culprit behind the formation of all cavities, and an end to cavities would require an end to the mutans bacteria. However, with 300 other species living in the mouth, many of which are actually beneficial to our oral health, eliminating mutans is tricky. A method would be necessary that specifically targets the mutans organism while leaving the rest of the healthy bacteria in the mouth alone. Such a method may have been discovered.
How A Future Without Tooth Decay May Finally Be In Sight
Within the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry, a study was published that revealed the creation and testing of a special chemical solution. This solution has been shown to successfully reduce the amount of plaque and tartar in the mouth by 40% while eliminating a similar amount of the mutans bacteria. All of this happens without causing harm to the other organisms in the mouth. While it isn’t a total eradication of the greatest enemy of our teeth, it’s a step in the right direction.
