Tooth Decay Symptoms
Symptoms for tooth decay are easy to misread. Until the decay progresses resulting in some serious pain the symptoms can be difficult to discern. Let us look at what causes tooth decay, the actual identifiable symptoms, the corrective solutions and most importantly, how you can avoid tooth decay to begin with.
Almost half of the entire world’s population has some stage of tooth decay in their permanent teeth. There is one fact we all share. We have millions of bacteria in our mouths every day. These bacteria are natural and necessary to begin the breakdown of the foods we eat to process the necessary nutrients. The problems begin when the number of bacteria is not kept in check and becomes excessive. Now the bacteria clings to the tooth creating a clear sticky substance called plaque. The plaque then turns the bacteria into acids which immediately attack the enamel of the tooth.
The symptoms to look for when questioning tooth decay are:
- Tooth Sensitivity, you may feel a tenderness or even some pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or even sweet.
- Persistent bad breath.
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth.
- Gray, brown, or black spots that appear on the tooth.
- A toothache, either continuous pain that can keep you awake or a sharp pain that comes and goes without any obvious cause.
Until you reach the level of discomfort and pain it can be difficult to know that you have a tooth that is decaying. Once it reaches the stage of creating pain it may to the point where the solution to correct and abate the infection is more engaging.
If the tooth decay is found at an early stage a simple fluoride paste can remove the bacteria and remineralize the enamel. If the decay develops into dental caries, or a cavity, the solution is to remove the decay and replace the decayed enamel and dentin with a dental filling. If allowed to reach the center of the tooth, the living tissue of the pulp, it will be necessary to undergo a procedure called a root canal. This is removing the infected tissue and filling the pulp chamber and the roots with a rubber like substance. Finally, if the toothache becomes unbearable you may be to the point where the tooth may have to be removed. The pain might be the result of the infection disturbing the nerves in the pulp and roots or an abscess that forms on the end of the root.
The vast majority of tooth decay can be avoided with consistent and regular good habits. The health industry strongly encourages us to brush our teeth twice a day, two minutes at a time. Compliment that with flossing between your teeth once a day. This is all that is needed to remove excessive plaque buildup on your teeth. It is also recommended to visit your family dentist twice a year for checkups. X-rays and a professional cleaning will complete the game plan for your preventative maintenance. Take care of your teeth, your gums, and your beautiful smile.