My teeth are rotting and breaking

Teeth that decay and break need prompt examination because the cause may involve enamel, dentine, pulp, cracks, grinding, erosion, or restorations.

Caries bacteria produce acids that dissolve enamel and dentine, creating a cavity that removes support from the tooth. When decay reaches the pulp, infection can develop; weakened cusps can then fracture under chewing forces.

Keep the area clean with a soft brush, avoid biting hard foods on the tooth, and save any broken fragment in clean water or milk if a dentist asks to see it. Do not glue the fragment back or place aspirin on the tooth.

Arrange prompt care for a broken or painful tooth, swelling, pus, fever, or a bad taste. Facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency attention.

Ask whether each tooth can be restored, how much sound structure remains, whether the pulp is involved, and whether the plan is a filling, buildup and crown, root canal treatment, or extraction.