What it is
A dentist can treat decay with fillings, crowns or root canal treatment. Badly damaged teeth may need to be removed.
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cutting down on sugar and regular dental check-ups help prevent it.
Common signs
- Toothache
- Sensitive teeth to hot, cold or sweet food
- Brown, black or white spots on a tooth
- Holes in the teeth
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
How it is usually diagnosed
- Dental examination
- Dental X-rays
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Dental records and charts
- Dental X-rays
- Treatment plans
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which teeth need treatment?
- What are my options for this tooth?
- How often should I have check-ups?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Swelling in the face, neck or around the eye, or difficulty breathing or swallowing: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.