What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay is the dental term for caries. It refers to a part of your tooth structure that is literally decaying away. Dentists often use fillings to fix the holes formed by decay. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that hide on the film on your teeth after eating. If not properly cleaned, these bacteria can cause decay.
What causes dental decay?
Dental decay is caused by bacteria. Everyone has bacteria in their mouth, and different people have different types and amounts. When we eat or drink, a film called dental plaque forms on our teeth. This plaque contains bacteria that feed on leftover sugars, producing acid, the same acid that is found in a car battery, that decays the tooth structure and forms cavities.
What are the signs of tooth decay?
The initial signs of tooth decay include changes in tooth color, such as whitening in a chalky appearance. The teeth may lose their sheen and become rough. As decay progresses, the teeth may turn yellow, brown, or black. A dentist can detect decay by visually examining and feeling the tooth, as well as through x-rays. Enamel, a tooth structure, should be very hard, so if it feels spongy, something is not right and there is active decay occurring.
What are the effects of tooth decay?
Untreated tooth decay can lead to significant consequences. It starts as a minor surface issue but can progress to a cavity that requires treatment. If left untreated, decay can reach the tooth’s pulp chamber, causing sensitivity, pain, throbbing, and possibly infection. In severe cases, tooth loss may occur. It's essential to see a dentist to prevent these outcomes by addressing the problem early enough. If you’ve already lost a tooth due to decay, there are various ways we can fix that, including bridges, implant therapy, and many other ways to handle those situations. If you have a toothache, please give us a call. We make it a priority to see people in pain so we can address it effectively.
Can tooth decay lead to other complications?
Yes, tooth decay can lead to other complications. The bacteria causing decay can spread to other areas of the mouth or even be transmitted to other people through actions like kissing or sharing utensils. Untreated decay can also affect chewing function and may require treatments like implants or dentures to restore stability.
Can tooth decay return to normal?
Tooth decay can be reversible in its early stages. We really are excellent dentists here at Integrity Dental, and we will give you honest feedback about what’s going on in your mouth, and we are on the more conservative side. What I mean by that is, when we do a dental exam, we often find cavities that are in different stages of the disease. Some more aggressive dentists will treat all stages of the disease with fillings. However, early stages of the disease can be treated with fluoride therapy, improved oral hygiene, and dietary changes. We treat those early stages more conservatively to avoid fillings so we can save natural tooth structure, save you time in the dental chair, and save you money. In the early stages, cavities can actually be healed before the tooth crumbles and causes a hole from that decay. However, once a cavity forms, it requires dental treatment such as fillings or crowns. Early intervention can prevent further damage and the need for more invasive treatments.
At what point is tooth decay irreversible?
Tooth decay becomes irreversible once a cavity forms, creating a hole in the tooth. At this stage, the cavity cannot heal on its own and requires formal dental treatment to fix the damage and prevent further decay.
What are some treatments for tooth decay?
Treatments for tooth decay range from conservative to more invasive methods. Early stages can be treated with oral hygiene instruction, which involves your tooth brushing technique, the kind of toothbrush you use, your flossing regimen, the kind of mouthwash you use, the kind of toothpaste you use, and the frequency of teeth cleanings. We recommend having your teeth cleaned twice a year, even if you have healthy teeth.
For cavities, fillings are used to repair small holes, while crowns are used for larger cavities. The majority of crowns are made out of porcelain, a very hard, long lasting structure, but we can also make it out of gold. Sealants can also be applied to prevent decay in pits and grooves.
How do I stop tooth decay from spreading?
To stop tooth decay from spreading, it's essential to treat existing cavities and improve oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and fluoride therapy. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial to monitor and maintain oral health.
Is tooth decay painful?
Tooth decay can be painful, especially in its advanced stages. Early decay may not cause pain, but sensitivity to sweets, hot, and cold can be indicators. Severe decay can lead to persistent toothaches and discomfort.
When should I see a dentist about treating tooth decay?
You should see a dentist as soon as you suspect tooth decay. Regular check-ups every six months are recommended to catch and treat decay early. If you experience any unusual sensitivity or see visible signs of decay, make an appointment with your dentist promptly.