Tooth decay or dental caries is the most prevalent oral problem worldwide. It can affect any age group, gender, or ethnicity. It destroys the surface of a tooth, and when left untreated, it can spread to deeper tissues, causing cavities. Timely detection and management are crucial to save the tooth from damage or permanent loss.
The dental care in Plymouth helps curb tooth decay at the initial stage to prevent disease progression into deeper tissues that may require extensive dental procedures. Know everything about tooth decay through this informative blog.
Understanding tooth decay and the stages involved
Tooth decay, or dental caries, is defined as the destruction of the tooth structure due to the abnormal and uncontrolled breakdown of the enamel (the outermost hard surface of the tooth) layer. Increased bacterial accumulation leads to the formation of plaque (soft sticky film covering the tooth surface), producing harmful acids, toxins, and by-products. These toxins demineralize the enamel, forming tiny holes, pits, or cavities. If left untreated, tooth decay can cause pain, swelling, pulpal infection, and gradual tooth loss.
There are five stages of tooth decay, namely:
Stage 1: Initial demineralization
Stage 2: Enamel decay
Stage 3: Dentin decay
Stage 4: Pulp damage
Stage 5: Abscess
Unraveling the symptoms of tooth decay
Symptoms of tooth decay vary depending on the stage, and extent of the damage caused. Initial tooth decay exhibits no symptoms except surface discoloration and cavity. However, advanced tooth decay may include any one or more of the following symptoms:
- Constant tooth pain
- Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, and sugary foods
- White or dark spots on the teeth
- Bad breath
- Deep cavity
- Difficulty chewing
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Increased gingival swelling, redness, and bleeding.
Exploring the treatment modalities
Based on the symptoms of disease severity, your dentist may recommend the following treatment options:
Fluoride Treatment
This treatment helps treat mild tooth decay, such as pits and fissures. Fluoride helps in the remineralization of the enamel, which can halt tooth decay and prevent further damage.
Dental Fillings
The dentist will remove the decayed tissues and restore the tooth by using an appropriate filling material or cement.
Root Canal Therapy
Tooth decay that extends deeper into the pulp requires extensive procedures like root canal therapy.
The decayed tissue and the entire pulp is removed and replaced with a biocompatible material like gutta-percha.
Tooth extraction
Tooth decay beyond repair is mostly extracted and replaced with suitable dentures, bridges, or dental implants.
Final note
Tooth decay is a widespread condition. It can vary in intensity as the infection spreads to the deeper layers. Knowing the symptoms is essential to seek dental care for optimal treatment and oral rehabilitation.
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