Posted by Tooth decay refers to teeth damage because of cavities. It causes tiny holes, abscess formation, or even tooth loss. Certain bacteria species that reside in dental plaque cause caries. The bacterial action turns sugars in your food into acid. When plaque keeps building up, acids develop and affect your teeth. The continuation of this process damages teeth over time. It is important to note that tooth decay has five stages. Intervention in earlier stages can help contain the decay and revive dental health. So, what are the five stages of tooth decay? Read on to learn.
Stage 1: Demineralization
Demineralization, in simplest terms, is the loss of minerals. The exterior of teeth is composed of a tissue called enamel, the hardest tissue in the body made of minerals. Acid exposure because of plaque bacteria causes demineralization, which shows up as white spots on teeth.
Stage 2: Enamel deterioration
Enamel breaks down further if the process of tooth decay is left unchecked. At this stage, the white spot on a tooth changes to a brownish color. When teeth enamel weakens, it causes small holes called cavities or dental caries. The dentist treats cavities by filling them using dental cement.
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Stage 3: Dentin exposure
Dentin is a relatively softer tissue that lies under the enamel. When tooth decay spreads to the dentin, it causes further damage and increases sensitivity. This makes eating hot and cold foods incredibly difficult.
Stage 4: Pulp impairment
The tooth’s innermost layer is called the pulp. It contains the blood vessels and nerves that keep the tooth healthy and provide sensation to the tooth. Pulp damage because of severe tooth decay leads to swelling and irritation. In addition, the pressure exerted on the surrounding tissues in the tooth because of swelling causes throbbing pain.
Stage 5: Pus formation
When the bacterial infection advances further, inflammation in the tooth increases and causes pus formation (abscess) at the tooth’s base, tooth abscesses result in excruciating pain that may spread into the jaw. Swollen gums, fever, Other symptoms that may be present include swollen gums or lymph nodes, fever, and facial swelling are other common symptoms of tooth abscess. The fifth stage of dental decay could turn life-threatening without treatment. The infection is likely to affect the jaw bones and other parts of your head and neck. In many cases, treatment may require tooth removal.
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How Is Tooth Decay Treated?
A dentist recommends a treatment plan based on what’s recommended for tooth decay based on its stage. Here are the possible treatment options.
Demineralization
At this stage, tooth decay is reversible. Fluoride treatment from an endodontist in La Jolla can help save a tooth on the verge of damage. The dentist applies fluoride gel or varnish to strengthen the enamel. Fluoride also makes teeth resistant to acids produced by plaque bacteria. When demineralization has just begun, an over-the-counter fluorinated toothpaste may also work to manage it.
Enamel deterioration
The small holes because of enamel loss at this stage can be treated with dental fillings. First, the dentist cleans the decayed area of the tooth and then fills in the cavities with ceramic, resin, or dental amalgam. All dental filling materials match your tooth’s color for a natural look.
Dentin impairment
When tooth decay reaches the dentin, it is imperative to see an endodontist in La Jolla to save a damaged tooth. From this point onwards, tooth decay moves at a much faster rate. Dentin decay may be treated with a filling if identified early. In severe cases, crown placement is required. Note that placing a crown may involve removing some healthy tissue to ensure a good fit of the crown.
Pulp impairment
The root canal is the best way to treat pulp damage. The dentist removes the damaged pulp, cleans the tooth cavity, fills it, and puts a crown on the affected tooth.
Pus formation
In this case, a root canal is a way out to remove the infection. Once the infection is treated, your dentist then seals the tooth. Some people may need tooth removal to prevent the infection from spreading. In addition, you may be prescribed antibiotics to kill the harmful bacteria and treat an abscess.
How To Prevent Tooth Decay?
Preventing tooth decay is no rocket science. Following an oral hygiene routine consistently does the trick. Besides, the following tips can help.
• Brush your teeth well
Brush your teeth twice every day for two minutes. Brushing in circular motions can help clean the teeth properly. Use fluorinated toothpaste to prevent plaque build-up.
• Visit your dentist regularly
Regularly seeing your dentist can help identify dental problems at their initial stages. However, even the most observant eyes can sometimes miss tooth issues. That is why periodic oral exams and dental cleanings are necessary to be on top of your dental health.
• Watch your food
Consuming foods high in sugar or acid puts you at risk of dental decay, especially when you do not rinse your mouth after taking such foods and beverages. Therefore, limit the consumption of sugary and acidic foods, and swish your mouth with plain water and mouthwash after every meal.
• Sealants for molars
Sealant is a thin layer of plastic spread over the top of your molars (back teeth). It prevents food particles from getting trapped in their grooves.
Conclusion
Bacteria in dental plaque convert sugars from your food into acids, which causes the deterioration of dental health. Tooth decay is spread over five stages and starts with demineralization. However, it may progress to abscess formation and even tooth loss when left untreated. Tooth decay at the initial stages is often reversible, but later it can advance to severe tooth damage.
The treatment for tooth decay depends on its stage. Fluoride treatments, fillings, and root canals are common treatments for tooth decay.
However, you can prevent tooth decay by maintaining dental hygiene, avoiding snacking, rinsing the mouth after meals, and having regular oral exams.