Tooth decay is a bacterial infection of the tooth. Commonly known as cavities, if decay is not removed early, it can progress to broken and chipped teeth, abscesses, and eventually tooth loss. Cavities are caused by plaque bacteria that converts the sugars from your food and drinks into acids that break down your teeth. Good oral hygiene can prevent plaque build-up, which minimizes the risk of tooth decay.
STAGES OF DECAY
Stage 1: Demineralization The outer layer of your teeth is composed of enamel - the hardest tissue in your body. As your teeth are exposed to the acids created by plaque, it breaks down the minerals in your enamel. When this happens, you may see a white spot on your tooth, which is a sign of demineralization and decay. There is typically no pain associated with demineralization and at this stage.
Stage 2: Decay of Enamel As tooth decay continues, your enamel breaks down further, sometimes creating small cavities or caries in your enamel. There is typically no pain associated with surface level cavities. Cavities may be filled by your dentist to prevent further decay.
Stage 3: Decay of Dentin If this small cavity is not filled, the decay will progress to the dentin - the tissue that lies under your tooth enamel. Dentin is softer than enamel, allowing tooth decay to proceed at a faster rate. Dentin also connects to the nerves of your tooth and decay may cause you to experience sensitivity, particularly with hot or cold foods or drinks. These cavities may be filled by your dentist to prevent further pain and more extensive and costly treatment to restore your tooth.
Stage 4: Pulp Damage The pulp is the innermost layer of your tooth containing nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth healthy. Once decay reaches the pulp of your tooth, it may become irritated and start to swell, causing pressure on the nerves in your tooth. This pressure can cause mild to severe pain, especially when exposed to temperature extremes. Root canal therapy is typically necessary to treat pulp damage.
Stage 5: Abscess As decay progresses into the pulp of the tooth, bacteria can cause an infection. An infection increases the inflammation in the tooth and can cause an abscess, or pocket of pus, at the root. Tooth abscesses can cause severe pain that could move into your jaw, and can also cause a fever and swelling in your gums, face, jaw, or lymph nodes. A tooth abscess requires timely treatment to avoid the infection spreading into your bones and blood stream, which can cause overall health issues, especially dangerous for those who have underlying medical conditions . Treatment may involve a root canal and crown or removing the affected tooth.
Avoiding tooth decay treatment often results in more pain, more extensive treatment, and more expense. Call us to schedule an appointment today!
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