Dental patients may experience tooth decay based on their lifestyle. Proper oral hygiene and avoiding foods and beverages that damage the teeth lower the risk of decay. If the patient smokes, their teeth are more likely to become damaged. Reviewing the essential facts about decaying teeth helps the patient determine what to do when they find cavities and other damage.
How Can Tooth Decay Happen?
The most common question dental patients ask is, “what is tooth decay?” Tooth decay is the demineralization of the tooth that leads to severe tooth damage if the patient doesn’t seek treatment from their dental professional. It can happen if a cavity forms on the tooth, if a tooth is broken or chipped, or if an abscess forms around the tooth. Patients who notice any signs of decay need fast dental treatment to protect their teeth.
The Initial Demineralization of the Tooth
The initial demineralization of the tooth causes tooth decay that appears as white spots on the teeth. During the first stage, the enamel becomes worn since it has been exposed to plaque bacteria. As a result, the enamel loses vital minerals and strength. If the patient sees white spots on their teeth, they need to set up a dental appointment.
The Second Stage: Enamel Decay
The second stage of dental decay allows the white spots to turn brownish. The enamel breaks down, and the patient will see signs of cavities on their teeth. The small holes will allow bacteria to enter the tooth and cause further damage. Cavities must be cleaned out and filled as soon as possible before they become more significant and the bacteria spread.
Signs of Pulp Damage
When reviewing the tooth decay stages, patients find that dentin decay happens when the tissue underneath the enamel is affected by decay. As a result, the tooth is more sensitive to damage, and the damage may spread to surrounding teeth. In addition, acidic foods and beverages will cause more severe damage, and the patient’s teeth become sensitive to temperature changes.
These signs of pulp damage could include pain and discomfort, and the patient will have a toothache more frequently. At this stage, the teeth could begin to break and cause more damage. If the pulp is exposed, the patient could experience nerve pain as a result. They will need more extensive tooth repairs and reconstruction to correct the damage and protect the surrounding teeth.
An Abscessed Tooth
An infection inside the tooth causes an abscess. At this stage of decay, the patient will have puss in the tooth that smells and taste horrible. An abscess could present dangerous situations for the patient if it isn’t treated promptly.
Wisdom teeth are at a greater risk of becoming abscessed. They may present a life-threatening situation if the infection enters the bloodstream. When reviewing the proper tooth decay treatment, patients discover that they may need antibiotics to clear the abscess. If the tooth is salvageable, patients will need to undergo dental repairs. If it is not reparable, the dentist recommends an extraction.
Reviewing Treatments for Tooth Decay
The dental professional will complete a variety of services to eliminate decay. They start by removing the decay and creating a clean hole. Then, if possible, they fill in the cavity. If the patient needs more extensive treatments, the dentist may install a crown after repairing the tooth or recommend a root canal.
Dental patients must undergo dental repairs and treatments if they discover cavities or other tooth damage. There are several signs of decay, and it is necessary to get treatment at the first sign. Dental patients can learn more about the treatments by contacting a local dentist now.
