It’s important to spend time each day brushing and flossing away food particles and plaque from your teeth. If you don’t, bacteria will attack your enamel and cause tooth decay. But dentists want patients to know that decay can lead to more than just cavity fillings—explore below how the damage can progress and affect your oral health. 

5 Levels of Decay Diagnosed by Dentists 

1. White Spots 

Before a dark cavity forms on the tooth, a white spot develops. This is a sign of demineralization, or wearing down of the enamel surface. A patient may not notice the blemish unless they look carefully.

In many cases, these are only found during a dentist’s examination. In this initial stage, your provider may recommend ways to remineralize the tooth. This often includes using a fluoride toothpaste, as well as practicing better brushing and flossing to avoid a filling. 

2. Tooth Erosion 

If remineralization fails, the tooth will continue to erode from underneath the surface. Eventually, a cavity will break through the weak enamel. While a visible hole begins to form in the second half of this stage, the patient may still not be aware of the extent of the damage. 

3. Dentin Decay 

In Stage 3, the enamel erodes enough to form a cavity in the tooth dentin, which is made up of the tissue just above the nerve. Common signs of cavities include a brown or black stain.Since the damage is so close to your nerve, it will also cause pain and sensitivity. If you or your dental professional notice one, you should receive a filling as soon as possible. If you ignore your symptoms and don’t make an appointment with your doctor, it will lead to problems with the tooth pulp. 

4. Pulp Infection 

The pulp is the sensitive center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. If decay reaches this area, it will cause significant pain. At this stage, it’s necessary to get a root canal to prevent a tooth extraction. Without treatment, patients may develop an abscess. 

5. Abscess 

An abscess is an infection that exits the tooth and begins to affect the surrounding tissue and jaw bone. In addition to severe swelling, pain is often unbearable. Other symptoms of an abscess include fever and trouble swallowing. An emergency root canal or extraction may be required to prevent serious injury.

 

The best way to avoid decay is to see a dental professional regularly. Larry G. Hubbard, DDS, of Bulloch County, GA, offers routine cleanings and exams and strives to provide you with a comfortable, satisfying experience each time you visit. He also offers a range of restorative treatments, including root canals, tooth extractions, and laser-assisted gum therapy. To make an appointment with the dentist, call (912) 764-9891. You can also learn more about his services and take a virtual tour of his office online.