If you have been experiencing dental pain, then it may be tooth decay. You may have already paid a visit to the dentist for cavities to know much they hurt. However, cavity is just stage 1 of tooth decay, and it evolves through a total of 5. All stages of tooth decay require a different treatment.
Give this blog a read to learn extensively about the 5 stages of enamel erosion you may be having and how you can expect your dentist to help you with the issue.
Stages of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is divided into 5 different stages:
1. Spotting of the Teeth
Tooth decay starts presenting itself in the form of white spots on teeth. The reason behind this is sugar and acid attack that develops on the teeth’ surface over time.
2. Enamel Decay
Once tooth decay stages past the first one, it starts forming a cavity on the enamel. It is the outermost layer of the teeth. Many people will begin experiencing cavity formation symptoms such as sensitivity to too hot, cold, or sweet eatables or beverages at this level or stage of tooth rot.
3. Dentin Decay
The level of pain increases as the stages of tooth decay progress and move forward. This means that the bacteria and decay are now spread to the tissue beneath the enamel, the dentin layer, which needs a filling as a treatment.
4. Decay Reaches the Pulp
The tooth pulp is a nerve ending beneath each tooth surface. Once the decay reaches tooth pulp, that individual will experience sharp zaps of mouth, tooth, or even jaw pain. Tooth decay in stage 4 requires a root canal and a crown cover to stop the pain and prevent bacteria from spreading and developing into a more serious infection.
5. Dental Abscess
This final stage is most dangerous and can spread to the tip of the tooth root under the pulp, forming a serious infection. If it goes beyond this point, it can even cause death.
What is Tooth Decay – Can We Prevent It?
Tooth decay is a natural process that takes place naturally from both the foods we eat and the natural bacterial buildup inside the mouth.
As bacteria accumulate and don’t get washed up, it has the power to destroy the teeth and result in an infection. In the starting stages of teeth decay is known as dental carries, or commonly cavities.
If they are left untreated or not properly cleaned, cavities progress into bigger, more expensive problems in the longer run.
There is a variety of tooth decay symptoms, including sensations, both hard severe and subtle. Moreover, sweet and temperature level sensations, the discoloration of teeth, bad breath or halitosis, painful bite, and metallic taste in the mouth among others.
Tooth Decay – Treatment
Tooth decay treatments depend majorly on which stage the rot is in. Ranging from mild to moderate, the treatments of tooth decay include; cleaning at home more than just brushing and flossing, getting fluoridated or otherwise extra strength toothpaste. Moreover, receiving a filling from the dentist, a root canal with a crown, or, in severe cases, complete tooth removal and replacement with a dental bridge or implant.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing dental decay troubles, call the dentist from Pearland Family Dentistry for help. Contact at (832) 649-7344 for more information.