Tooth Decay
Tooth decay (dental caries) happens when acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque damage the hard surface (enamel) of the teeth.
Overview
Tooth decay (dental caries) happens when acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque damage the hard surface (enamel) of the teeth. It’s one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, affecting over 90% of Australian adults at some point (AIHW).
Common Misunderstandings
Many people think sugar alone causes decay, but it’s actually the combination of frequent sugar intake, acid-producing bacteria, and reduced saliva flow that leads to enamel breakdown. Some patients are surprised to still get cavities despite brushing regularly, which can be due to microbiome imbalance or dietary habits.
How is Tooth Decay Linked to Your Microbiome?
- Tooth decay is linked to overgrowth of acid-producing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species in dental plaque¹.
- A healthy oral microbiome contains diverse bacteria that help protect against excessive acid build-up.
- Diet, antibiotics, and saliva composition can shift the oral microbiome toward decay-promoting species.
- Some research suggests gut microbiome health may indirectly influence oral microbial communities through immune modulation.
Symptoms
White spots on teeth
Brown staining on teeth
Tooth sensitivity
Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold food/drinks
Toothache or pain when biting
In severe cases*
Infection and abscess formation
Soreness with dentures
Extension of oesophagus
Cause painful swallowing
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for Tooth Decay includes:
Oral Microbiome Test
The Oral Microbiome Test identifies imbalances and pathogens in the oral flora to explain symptoms and guide precise, personalised treatment and prevention.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based/pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut and mouth.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut and mouth without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Recommendations based on the latest science to enhance the effectiveness of the Repair-4™ and maintenance programs prescribed by your doctor.
Suspect you might have Tooth Decay?
References
¹Lamont RJ, et al. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2018;16:745–759. doi:10.1038/nrmicro.2018.187.