Tooth decay
According to the WHO, untreated decay in permanent teeth is the most common oral disease in the world. It develops gradually, and in the early stages often only a dentist notices it.
Topics
Topics and conditions
Topics here are grouped around what people run into most often: enamel and tooth decay, gums, children's teeth and situations where care needs extra attention. Each card gives a general explanation and a link to the section that covers the topic in more detail. We do not describe signs in a way that would let you diagnose yourself: that is the dentist's job.
Almost every dental problem starts quietly. The sooner you show it to a dentist, the simpler and calmer the conversation about treatment usually is.
How this section works: we include a topic when it affects many people and there is a clear reason to act, whether that is changing a habit, asking your dentist a question or not putting off a visit. We do not publish accounts of treating individual cases and we do not compare clinics.
Teeth and enamel
Enamel is strong, but it cannot repair deep damage on its own.
Sensitivity
A short, sharp twinge from cold, hot or sweet things is familiar to many people. It has several possible causes, so it is better to look for a solution with your dentist than on the advice of an advert.
Plaque and tartar
Soft plaque comes off with a toothbrush, but hardened tartar (calculus) cannot be removed at home; it is taken off during a professional cleaning at the surgery.
Chips and cracks
Even a small chip is worth showing to a dentist: a sharp edge can injure the cheek and tongue, and a crack can let irritants reach deeper into the tooth.
Gums
Healthy gums do not bleed during normal brushing.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding when you brush or floss is a reason to see a dentist. There is no need to stop brushing because of it: talk to your dentist about how to look after your gums.
Smoking and tobacco
The WHO lists tobacco as a risk factor for gum disease and oral cancer. Giving up tobacco benefits your mouth at any age.
Bad breath
Bad breath is often linked to plaque on the tongue and between the teeth, but there can be other causes too. If it persists, mention it to your dentist.
Children
Baby teeth matter, even though they will be replaced later.
First teeth
Care begins as soon as the first tooth appears. How and with what to brush a toddler's teeth is a good thing to discuss with a children's dentist or paediatrician.
Sugar and bottles
Sipping sugary drinks throughout the day or at bedtime leaves sugar on the teeth for a long time. Water between meals is a habit that protects enamel.
First visit
Meeting a dentist without pain or rush helps a child not to fear the surgery. The dentist can tell you when to come for the first time.
Help from adults
A young child cannot yet brush thoroughly, so adults help and check the result.
Special situations
Some circumstances change your care routine or treatment plan.
Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, tell your dentist. They will take it into account when choosing examinations and treatment.
Braces
Plaque builds up more easily around brackets and wires, so cleaning takes longer. Your orthodontist can recommend suitable brushes and interdental brushes.
Dentures
Removable and fixed dentures also need daily care. The dentist who made them will explain how to clean and store them.
Fear of treatment
Fear of the dentist is common. It is worth telling your dentist about it in advance: that makes it easier to agree on breaks and clear explanations.
Article catalogue for English-language readers
This is where standalone articles on dental and oral health for English-speaking readers will appear. They are written for this audience, with health systems outside Russia in mind, and do not repeat the material of other language versions.
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Topics the editors are planning
- How to prepare your child for their first dental visit
- Questions to ask before agreeing to teeth whitening
- Looking after your teeth and gums while wearing braces
- Dental anxiety: how to tell your dentist and what can help
Editorial rules
- Articles in this catalogue are written separately for each language version and are not translations.
- Some articles link to third-party websites, including gaming services; we do not control their content, prices or terms.
- We do not publish ratings of clinics or dentists, prices, advertising for care products or reviews.
Related sections
- Prevention
Home dental care step by step: brush, fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, sugar and tobacco.
- Methods
The kinds of dental care, how to discuss a treatment plan and which promises not to trust.
- Glossary
Words from the dental surgery and paperwork: enamel, pulp, plaque, filling, treatment plan.
Sources
- WHO — Global Oral Health Status Report (2022)
- FDI World Dental Federation — patient information
Information is current as of the date prepared. Oral-care recommendations, the scope of dental care covered by Russia's compulsory medical insurance (OMS) and the rules for medical paperwork may change. Check the current documents and ask your dental clinic or insurer for details; arrangements differ in other countries.