Stages of Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is an unfortunate result of neglecting the proper care of your teeth. Research has suggested that almost half of the entire world’s population has some form of tooth decay with their permanent teeth. We will take a look first at what causes tooth decay, the actual identifiable stages that the decay progresses through with the tooth and the simple oral hygiene habits that can be taken to prevent the tooth decay from even forming.
Tooth decay is the tooth breaking down as the result of bacteria on the tooth creating a damaging acid. Called dental caries, it will affect each of us differently due to our genetic make-up, our diets, and our level of oral hygiene care.
It all starts with bacteria. We all have millions of bacteria in our mouths every single day. These bacteria are necessary to begin the natural process of breaking down food substance to extract life preserving nutrients. The trouble begins when the bacteria reaches a much higher quantity. Now these bacteria will cling to the surface of the tooth and immediately create a clear sticky substance called plaque. Inside the plaque the bacteria changes into acids. The damage begins. The acids begin by attacking the enamel of the tooth, then the next layer called the dentin and finally into the living tissue at the center of the tooth called the pulp. With each level the discomfort and pain increases.
The stages of tooth decay look like the following:
- Stage One - The area infected becomes a chalky white. At this stage remineralization of the tooth can still reverse the damage.
- Stage Two - The enamel begins breaking down and permanent damage begins. A cavity is forming.
- Stage Three - Now the infection is reaching the dentin, forming a deeper cavity, and resulting in more discomfort and intensifying pain in the infected tooth. At this point a dental filling is the only solution to restore the tooth.
- Stage Four - The infection has now reached the pulp, creating a pus, and killing the connective tissues. The pain increases and the only corrective solution is a root canal procedure, removing the pulp and deadening the tooth.
- Stage Five - The most painful stage, an abscess will form at the base of the tooth infecting surrounding soft tissue and any adjoining bone.
- Stage Six - The final stage, results in the loss of the tooth.
Any and all of this tooth decay can be avoided with good oral hygiene habits at home. The health industry strongly suggests that we brush our teeth twice a day to remove the damaging plaque. With two minutes of brushing each time you can prevent the plaque from forming. They also suggest flossing once a day to get to the hard to reach areas between your teeth. To compliment your efforts, you should also visit your family dentist twice a year. They will monitor the health of your teeth and gums, create a history with x-rays, and also professionally clean your teeth removing any plaque your efforts might have missed. Protect your teeth and gums and the invaluable asset of your smile.