Our teeth are the strongest substance in our bodies. And yet, when exposed to corrosive substances, they are still prone to decay. Caught in its earliest stages, the damage is mostly reversible. However, without regular trips to a dentist for an exam and treatment, it can worsen into a serious medical issue. The guide below describes this progression.

Enamel Breakdown

Enamel is the protective outer layer of each tooth. It’s under constant attack by decay-causing bacteria, acids, and sugars, which lead to plaque growth. If these substances aren’t brushed and flossed away, the enamel will begin to wear. This first appears as white spots on the teeth from calcium deposits on the tooth that are unable to remineralize.

Dentin Decay

Dentin is the sensitive layer between your enamel and the inner pulp chambers of your tooth. Once bacteria have broken through the enamel layer, they’ll attack the exposed dentin. As calcium and phosphates break down, the tooth will weaken and lead to a cavity. This may or may not be visible—and pain can range from mild and infrequent to severe and constant. A dentist can apply a dental filling to resolve the issue; however, if you neglect treatment, you risk losing the tooth altogether. 

Pulp Decay

Within each tooth is a series of chambers that contain dental pulp. This cellular tissue produces dentin. When decay-causing bacteria break into the root chambers, they’ll create an infection. This eventually kills blood vessels and nerves and can be extremely painful. The only way to resolve the issue and to save the tooth is by performing root canal therapy. During the procedure, a dentist will drill into the tooth, remove the infected pulp, clean the chambers, and then seal the tooth with a dental crown. If a root canal infection isn’t addressed, the tooth will break or fall out. Likely, at this stage, you will also have gum disease, which has been linked to diabetes, heart health, and even premature birth in pregnant women.

Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of decay or simply need a checkup, a dentist at Cherry Hill Dentistry can assist. Based in Lincoln, NE, this practice offers a variety of services, including general and cosmetic dentistry. Drs. Jerry Kroeger and Tanya Powell create a personalized treatment plan for each patient and are committed to helping them achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Call (402) 488-2383 to schedule a teeth cleaning. You can learn more about their services online.