As soon as teeth appear above the gum line they are under attack from acid, plaque and erosion. Tooth decay is when acids dissolve the outer layers of the teeth. If this acid erosion continues it will lead to sensitivity, pain and ultimately loss of the tooth.

It is estimated that 31% of adults in the UK have tooth decay and it is one of the most common problems for children. Although oral health is improving in England almost a quarter (24.7%) of 5 year olds have tooth decay, so 1 in 4 children will have tooth decay when they start school.

Symptoms often do not appear until the later stages of the condition, therefore it is important to have regular dental check –ups as it is easier to treat tooth decay successfully in the early stages.

The symptoms of advanced tooth decay are:

Toothache is a warning sign that there is a problem and any customer seeking advice or treatment for toothache should be referred to their dentist as soon as possible.