What Are The Stages of Tooth Decay

1. What Are The Stages of Tooth Decay =========================================================================== Have you noticed the white spots on your teeth? The most common cause of white spots on teeth is early tooth decay. The process of tooth decay begins with plaque buildup that can eventually lead to gum diseases, making tooth decay the most chronic disease to deal with. The initial stage of tooth decay is manageable and can be prevented under the guidance of an expert dentist in general dentistry in Bridgeport TX. However, it is crucial to be aware of the five stages of tooth decay to prevent further repercussions if left untreated. 1. Chalky White Spots Enamel demineralization is the first sign of tooth decay. The acidic plaque exposed for a longer period weakens the enamel and causes demineralization. Consequently, white spots appear on the teeth. However, you can reverse the tooth decay with dentist-recommended fluoride paste or mouthwashes. 2. Enamel Decay If not addressed, the white spots can deteriorate the enamel, the second stage of tooth decay. It is the stage where the white spots begin to turn brownish when the enamel breaks down, causing small holes in the teeth, known as cavities. 3. Dentin Decay When bacteria attack the dentin tubules and the hollow microscopic channels, the third stage of tooth decay begins. After damaging the enamel, the cavity triggers the dentin, a layer of tooth material under the enamel. Dentin decay causes severe tooth sensitivity and extreme tooth pain. 1

2. 4. Pulp Damage When the infection reaches the pulp, the innermost layer, it indicates that you’ve missed the early signs of tooth decay. Bacteria enter the pulp through the crack or cavity, which leads to swelling and irritation in the teeth. Consequently, the last stage of pulp damage causes pulp necrosis (the death of a tooth’s pulp). 5. Abscess The fifth stage of tooth decay is known as abscess formation. Bacteria infect the tooth by accumulating in the decaying pulp, which leads to inflammation in the tooth. The formation of pus in the root of the teeth radiated into the jaw, resulting in swollen lymph nodes, a swollen face and jaw, or fever. Take Away The ideal and easy way to prevent tooth decay is to have regular check-ups at a comprehensive general dentistry. Additionally, if you experience any symptoms of tooth decay, visit Wise Dental, an emergency dentist in Bridgeport, for immediate treatment. Source URL: https://sites.google.com/view/dental-clinic-in-bridgeport-tx/blogs/what-are- the-stages-of-tooth-decay 2