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Tooth decay

Overview

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Symptoms of tooth decay include toothache, a sharp pain in your tooth when eating or drinking and a discoloured tooth.

Treatment for tooth decay depends on how severe it is. Treatments include fluoride mouthwashes or varnishes, fillings, and root canal treatment.

There are some simple things you can do to help prevent tooth decay, such as brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing them regularly.

Tooth decay is often caused by too much sugary food and drink and not cleaning your teeth and gums. Get it treated quickly to stop it getting worse.

Page last reviewed: 22/03/2022
Next review due: 22/03/2025