Worm-Like Structures Linked to Tooth Decay

Many studies and indeed folk lore have suggested that worms may cause tooth decay.

Many studies and indeed folk lore have suggested that worms may cause tooth decay. Now researchers at the University of Maryland (U-M) Dental School have found that there are some cylindrical objects that grow out of the natural pores in teeth and that these may indeed cause tooth decay.

“Most (dentists) say 'I have no idea'. Others say they are made of bacteria, or minerals, or hyphal branches of yeast cells (C. albicans) which have infected the tooth structure,” said co-presenter Gary Hack, associate professor at the Dental School.

Tooth Decay - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Tooth decay in toddlers, children and adults, also called dental caries, is a bacterial infection causing demineralization and destruction of the hard tissues of the teeth.

Ru-Ching Hsia, director of the electron microscope core facility at the school has photographed these worm-like structures in detail and while there is no evidence that these are actually worms, the researchers insist on using the term.

The details of the study were elaborated at the annual meeting of the Microscopy Society of America.

Source-Medindia
RAS

Tooth Discoloration Introduction
Tooth discoloration or staining is caused commonly due to smoking, some medicines and poor dental hygiene.

Dental Anesthesia - Types - Modern Anesthetics - Administration - Contraindications And Complications - FAQs
The advent of anesthesia may be regarded as a cornerstone in the development of modern dentistry.

Bruxism - Incidence Causes Diagnosis Treatment Prevention FAQs
Bruxism is the unconscious clenching or grinding of teeth, during sleep. Nocturnal teeth grinding is one of the most common sleep disorders