It has long been recognised that if a good standard of cleaning is not maintained then this can lead to accumulation of dental plaque and calculus (calcified plaque), which in turn will lead to the development of dental decay, gum disease and other deterious effects. Dental decay is a risk at any age. Up to the age of 20 years, the primary type of dental decay effects the crown of the tooth, the visible part. This normally requires elimination (removal) of the decay and the filling of the resulting cavities. After the age of twenty, much of the treatment involves replacement of restorative dentistry, and this may in turn need to be replaced at 10-15 year intervals.

As we get older another type of decay can begin called "root caries". This particularly effects people who have recession of their gums, a dry mouth, alteration in their diet or suffer from certain types of disease. This type of decay can be equally as destructive to tooth substance and can be more difficult to control. It is important that whatever your age, you should have regular examinations by your dentist to prevent these problems and to have them treated; note that the problem can develop rapidly, for instance, in the time between regular examinations.