What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is a condition that damages the surface of the tooth or tooth enamel, caused by bacterial attacks that create small holes on the tooth surface.

Tooth decay can occur on the crown or root surfaces of the teeth. If not treated early, it can progress into the dentin, destroy the pulp, cause pain, infection, and even lead to tooth loss.

Causes of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by bacteria naturally present in the mouth, primarily Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus, and species of Actinomyces. When food—especially sugar and starch—sticks to the surface of the teeth, these bacteria break it down and produce acids that erode tooth enamel, creating cavities.

In addition, several other factors can contribute to tooth decay:

• Gum recession: When the gums recede, plaque and tartar can accumulate around the roots of the teeth. At this stage, the dentin becomes vulnerable to bacterial attacks. Therefore, proper oral care and regular dental checkups are essential for protection.

• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate cleaning of the teeth provides favorable conditions for bacteria to thrive. It’s important to brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and to complement brushing with a water flosser or dental floss.

• Dehydration: A lack of water reduces saliva production. Saliva plays a key role in washing away food particles and plaque, and the minerals in saliva help limit the growth of harmful bacteria.

• Dietary habits: Foods high in sugar and starch are harmful to oral health, as they contribute to enamel demineralization. It’s advisable to limit the intake of such foods and avoid snacks like candy, cookies, and sugary drinks to protect teeth from bacterial attack.

• Gastrointestinal issues: Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acid to reach the mouth, eroding the enamel and damaging the teeth. This makes the dentin more susceptible to bacterial infection, leading to tooth decay.

• Dental conditions: Issues such as gingivitis and periodontitis can increase the risk of cavities by allowing bacteria to multiply excessively.

• Eating disorders: Conditions such as anorexia and bulimia can severely erode enamel and worsen tooth decay. Eating disorders may also impair saliva production.

• Cracked, broken, or loose teeth: Weak or damaged teeth create areas where plaque can accumulate. If plaque isn’t removed, it allows bacteria to build up and cause decay.

Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

In the early stages, tooth decay often shows no noticeable symptoms. As the decay progresses, the following signs may appear:

• Bad breath: Food particles stuck between the teeth and not cleaned properly create a favorable environment for bacterial growth, resulting in halitosis (bad breath). Additionally, bacteria can cause a bitter taste in the mouth, reducing appetite and enjoyment of food.

• Progressive decay: Tooth decay develops in stages—from enamel decay to dentin decay, and eventually reaching the pulp—leading to serious complications such as:

  • Toothache

  • Dental abscess

  • Swelling or pus around the tooth

  • Tooth damage or fractures

  • Impaired chewing function

  • Tooth loss causing misalignment of the dental arch

• Visible cavities: One of the most obvious signs of tooth decay is the appearance of small pits or black spots on the tooth surface.

• Swollen gums: Bacterial growth due to decay can make the gums more sensitive. Even minor irritation can lead to swelling and bleeding.

• Sensitivity or sharp pain when eating hot/cold foods: When food enters a cavity, combined with hot, cold, or sweet foods, it may trigger sharp pain or sensitivity. This is a common symptom of tooth decay.

When Tooth Extraction Is Necessary for Decay

If a decayed tooth cannot be preserved, the dentist will proceed with extraction. This method is only performed when the tooth is severely damaged beyond repair. In certain cases—such as gum recession with decay, decay that has destroyed the tooth root, or impacted wisdom teeth—the affected tooth may pose a risk to neighboring teeth. In such situations, the entire decayed tooth must be completely removed.

Many patients fear pain and often hesitate to have decayed teeth extracted. However, attempting to keep a severely decayed tooth can lead to food and plaque buildup, causing bad breath and hindering proper oral hygiene. More seriously, it may result in a dental abscess, an infection in the bone surrounding the tooth, which manifests as swelling, redness, fever, and severe pain. The most dangerous complication is sepsis—a life-threatening infection that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Which Dental Clinic Should You Choose for Tooth Extraction?

To ensure safety, it is essential to have decayed molars extracted at professional dental clinics. Reputable dental clinics not only employ highly skilled and experienced dentists but are also equipped with modern, state-of-the-art technology. This minimizes risks and protects your oral health.

Domin Dental Clinic is considered one of the top choices, trusted by many patients for tooth extractions and other dental procedures, thanks to the following advantages:

• A team of highly qualified dentists, professionally trained at leading universities both domestically and internationally.

• Advanced, cutting-edge equipment that ensures tooth extraction is performed safely and effectively.

• Extraction procedures strictly follow the standards set by the Ministry of Health.

• Comfortable and modern facilities fully equipped to meet patients’ needs.

• Affordable and clearly listed prices, along with attractive promotional programs that help ease financial concerns for many customers.

Tooth Extraction Procedure for Decayed Teeth at Domin Dental Clinic

To ensure safety, minimize pain, and promote fast healing, the tooth extraction process at Domin Dental Clinic follows a strict, standardized protocol:

Step 1: Examination, X-ray, and Consultation
Upon arrival, you will undergo a thorough examination by a dentist. At this stage, you should inform the doctor of any relevant medical history, such as high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or diabetes.
An X-ray will then be taken to assess the condition of the decayed tooth and determine the level of difficulty of the extraction.

Step 2: Oral Cleaning
The dentist and assistant will clean your oral cavity to ensure a sterile environment and reduce the risk of complications during the procedure.

Step 3: Disinfection and Local Anesthesia
Although tooth extraction is considered a minor procedure, local anesthesia is mandatory. Once administered, the gum area around the tooth will be temporarily numb, ensuring you feel no pain or discomfort during the process—so there’s no need to worry about whether it will hurt!

Step 4: Tooth Extraction
The dentist will use specialized instruments to remove the decayed tooth. At Domin Dental Clinic, this step is carried out with great care and precision. The extraction typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Step 5: Stitching and Wound Closure
After the tooth is removed, the dentist will clean the area one final time using sterile water, then stitch the wound with dental sutures. You will be asked to bite down on a gauze pad to stop the bleeding and remain at the clinic for about 30 minutes for observation.

Step 6: Prescription and Home Care Instructions
You will be prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers. The dentist will also give you detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth at home, and if necessary, schedule a follow-up appointment.

Reference Price List for Tooth Extraction at Domin Dental Clinic

The cost of tooth extraction at Domin Dental Clinic may vary depending on the type of tooth and the severity of the damage.
Prices typically range from 500,000 to 4,000,000 VND.

Post-Tooth Extraction Care Instructions

To minimize complications and support oral health recovery, here are some important aftercare tips following a tooth extraction:

• Remain at the dental clinic for about 30 minutes after the extraction so the dentist can monitor your condition.

• On the first day, gently rinse your mouth with saline solution. Starting from the second day, you can brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site. You may also use Period-aid Intensive Care mouthwash to help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• For the first few days, eat soft foods such as porridge or soup. You can return to a normal diet gradually afterward.

• Avoid spicy or hot foods, and refrain from drinking alcohol, beer, or using stimulants during the initial healing period.

In general, whether the decayed tooth is in the upper or lower jaw, the key factor is identifying the stage and severity of the decay and whether the tooth can be saved.
If extraction of an upper, lower, or even multiple decayed teeth is necessary, there’s no need to worry—Domin Dental Clinic ensures the process is smooth and professionally handled.

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