Tooth decay is an occurrence that most people experience at least once in their lifetime. Whether it manifests itself as a cavity, tooth pain, or tooth loss, tooth decay can become a very big problem. In order to prevent tooth decay, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene habits. It is best to always be aware of the decay process. Staying informed on the process can help you identify how urgent your trip to the dentist for a tooth filling procedure should be. Below, we discuss the tooth decay process in its entirety.
Plaque Build Up & White Spots
The first signs of tooth decay are white spots. White, chalky spots that form on the surface of the tooth is a clear indicator of loss of calcium. This occurs when plaque build up occurs and the bacteria from this plaque metabolizes sugars from the food you’re eating. This bacteria is usually very acidic, causing the breakdown and corrosion of enamel. There is still hope for your tooth at this stage. The deterioration can be reversed with daily and effective brushing. Fluoride treatments may also be required in reversing these white spots and plaque build-up.
Enamel Decay
If you do not address white spots and plaque build-up, the enamel begins to suffer greatly. Our teeth normally undergo a remineralization process when enamel suffers, providing and restoring the proper minerals our tooth needs to survive in a healthy manner. When enamel decay occurs, our tooth is unable to undergo this natural process. This causes an abrasion in the tooth and can eventually lead to the surface of the tooth breaking altogether.
Dentin Decay
Dentin is found within the structure of our teeth. The dentin is the connective tissue of the tooth surrounding the pulp, after the enamel. Dentin decay occurs when enamel decay is present, creates a lesion, and is then left untreated. The bacteria continues to build up and acids continue to break down the enamel. When decay reaches the dentin, it is often no surprise as the pain begins to increase greatly and a cavity is formed by a complete deterioration of the enamel. Undergoing a tooth filling procedure by a professional dentist will aid in stopping the process of decay from continuing down to the pulp and will also restore the tooth to functional health.
Pulp Infection
The pulp is center of the tooth, where all living tissues and cells lie. The pulp’s job is to produce dentin, which, as we already know, connects the enamel and pulp. When bacteria and acid reach the pulp, you know you’re in serious trouble. Decay here will inevitably cause infection. Consequently, this kills blood vessels and nerves within the tooth. This causes that awful, persistent tooth pain that often requires a more serious procedure to fix, such as a root canal.
Abscess Formation
When an abscess forms, the infection has spread to the bones in the area and the top of the tooth. This stage is extremely painful and can sometimes affect the gums, tongue, and bones in the surrounding area, making it difficult to speak. This will often require special oral surgery.
Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is the final stage of tooth decay, or the result of tooth decay if left untreated or prevented along the way. Extraction is required if the decay is ignored. It’s important to pay attention to tooth decay along the way so that you may catch it in its earlier stages before it’s too late. Implants and bridges are very expensive, so getting that cavity filled or creating good dental hygiene habits can save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are some ways to prevent cavities from occurring in your mouth and stop tooth decay from ruining your beautiful smile.
If you’re experiencing tooth decay, it’s important that you seek out a professional tooth filling procedure before it’s too late. Dental Care of Chino Hills is here for you every step of the way.