Tooth decay doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow process that wears down the various parts of your tooth until you’re left with an abscess in need of serious dental help. In short, tooth decay is the term for damage that occurs to your teeth, progressively working inwards from outside. Bacteria that lives in plaque and in your mouth in general secretes acid as it breaks down sugars left behind in your mouth.
This is what makes flossing and brushing your teeth multiple times a day so important, keeping tooth decay at bay.
Sugar left behind on your teeth becomes food for bacteria that digests the sugar and leaves behind acid that can wear down your enamel, dentin, and eventually the inner most parts of your teeth.
Below are the stages of tooth decay that your teeth will progress through if you do nothing to combat tooth decay. The earlier you see your dentist, the better chance you have of stopping and even reversing tooth decay.
Demineralization
Do you sometimes see a white spot appear on your teeth? This is a sign of mineral loss which is the beginning of tooth decay. The acid from bacteria first goes after the minerals on the outside of your teeth and this mineral loss is the first warning bell and he first step in tooth decay.
Enamel Decay
Enamel is one of the hardest tissues in your body and is composed of minerals (such as calcium). After the enamel becomes stripped of their mineral layer, the enamel itself will begin to break down. This happens when that white spot that first gave a warning sign of demineralization turns brown. Cavities will often follow.
Dentin Decay
Dentin sits one layer beneath thee enamel. It’s must softer and therefore more susceptible to damage of its protective enamel layer wears down. Once tooth decay reaches the dentin level, it often progresses quickly. However, the danger here is in that your dentin contains a direct route to your tooth nerves. Because of this the first sign that the dentin may be in danger is persistent tooth sensitivity or pain, especially when you have hot or cold drinks or food.
Pulp Damage
Below dentin is the pulp of your tooth. Contained here is the blood source of your tooth and nerves. Damage to the pulp becomes clear with more pronounced tooth irritation and pain. Often damage in the pulp leads to swelling which puts pressure on the tooth nerves and causes pain.
Abscess
If the bacteria have managed to get through the pulp, it becomes an infection in the tooth, leading to inflammation and pus referred to as an abscess or abscessed tooth. This is an infection in the root of the tooth which can become dangerous if it is left untreated. It is also incredibly painful as the swelling forces pressure on nerves in the tooth and the infection itself can cause fever and further body inflammation as a result.
Related Questions
What do I do if my tooth has abscessed?
First, call and visit your dentist for an oral evaluation. Unfortunately, it will need to be removed and likely replaced with an artificial implant. Depending on the severity of the infection you may also need antibiotics. Talk to your dentist about restorative options if you resort to losing a tooth or teeth.
Can you reverse tooth decay once it starts?
Early stages of tooth decay can be halted and even reversed. Cavities can be caught early and filled, and you can utilize enamel protecting toothpaste as well as increase mineral intact to help strengthen your teeth. Being proactive about your dental health practices makes a big difference in the outcome of tooth decay.
If you have concerns about your teeth and overall dental health, talk to your dentist about prevention as well as options if it’s too late to save your decaying tooth.
For the best dental care in the Commerce area, Sedki Dentistry is the place for you and your family. When you walk into our Commerce Twp dental office you will find an experienced and compassionate dental staff committed to the highest level of personalized dental care you can find.
Dr. Sedki has 20 years of experience in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dental treatments, children’s dentistry and more! Using the latest technology and procedures available in modern dentistry, you are in good hands. Call for a Free Dental Consultation today!