Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Tooth decay damages teeth and, if left untreated, leads to cavities.
Understanding how plaque and tartar contribute to decay can help you catch early signs and take action before problems worsen.
In this blog, we will explain what tooth decay looks like, explore the stages of decay, and share treatments and preventive measures to protect your oral health.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
In the first stage of tooth decay, you may notice white spots or areas of discoloration on the tooth surface, indicating early enamel damage. As decay progresses, it can form dark spots, holes, or cavities, requiring treatments like fillings, root canals, or crowns to restore the structure and function of the tooth.
Early Signs of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay often starts with subtle signs that may not be immediately noticeable.
White Spots on the Tooth Surface
These are often one of the first signs of tooth decay.
These spots indicate that minerals are being lost from the outer enamel layer. At this stage, tooth decay can still be reversed with proper oral hygiene and fluoride treatments.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity is another common sign of early tooth decay.
You may feel discomfort or pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. This usually happens when decay reaches the dentin layer beneath the enamel.
Good dental care and fluoride treatments can help strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath often results from bacteria and plaque buildup in your mouth.
Food particles trapped between your teeth and a buildup of dental plaque can create a strong odor.
Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, regular brushing and dental cleanings can help eliminate bad breath.
Bad Taste in the Mouth
If you notice a bad taste in your mouth, it could be due to decay or bacterial infections.
Decaying teeth often leave a foul taste because bacteria break down food particles and create acids.
Stages of Tooth Decay
As tooth decay progresses, it moves through distinct stages.
Each stage affects deeper parts of your tooth and requires specific treatment to stop further damage.
Stage 1: Enamel Decay
In the earliest stage of tooth decay, the acids from plaque begin to attack the tooth’s enamel layer.
This results in white or brown spots on the tooth surface. Since the enamel layer is the outermost part of your tooth, you can use fluoride toothpaste and practice good brushing habits to reverse this stage of decay.
Stage 2: Dentin Decay
As decay advances, it reaches the dentin layer beneath the enamel.
Dentin contains nerve endings, so you may start to experience tooth sensitivity or mild tooth pain. At this stage, a dental filling can restore the shape of the tooth and function while preventing further decay.
Stage 3: Pulp Decay
In the third stage, decay penetrates the innermost part of the tooth, known as the pulp.
The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and decay in this area often leads to severe tooth pain, facial swelling, and abscesses.
Root canal treatment is typically the solution at this stage. It removes the infected pulp and saves the tooth.
A dental crown is usually placed on the affected tooth to maintain proper function and aesthetics.
Stage 4: Advanced Decay
Advanced decay affects the entire tooth structure, including the root and surrounding gum tissues.
You may notice large cavities, broken teeth, or severe pain. In some cases, tooth extraction is necessary.
Your dentist may suggest replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant or a bridge to maintain proper function and aesthetics.
Common Causes of Tooth Decay
Here are the main factors that contribute to tooth decay:
- Poor oral hygiene: If you skip brushing and flossing regularly, plaque and food particles will accumulate on your teeth. Plaque turns into tartar, which traps bacteria against your teeth and increases the risk of decay.
- Sugary foods and drinks: Sugars in foods and beverages like candy, soda, fruit juices, and sweet snacks fuel the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria create acids that attack the tooth enamel and result in cavities.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and sports drinks, can erode your tooth enamel. This erosion weakens your teeth and makes them more susceptible to decay.
- Dry mouth: Saliva acts as a natural cleanser and washes away food particles and bacteria. A dry mouth reduces saliva production, which increases the risk of tooth decay and plaque buildup.
- Frequent snacking: Constant snacking throughout the day provides a steady source of fuel for plaque bacteria. Each snacking session gives bacteria more time to create acids that attack your teeth. When talking about decay, remember it’s the frequency in the mouth of the sugar/carbohydrates that bacteria break-down to acid, and not the quantity of sugar, that matters!
Preventing and Treating Tooth Decay
Maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to prevent and treat tooth decay.
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth in the morning and before bed. Brushing removes plaque and food particles from the tooth surfaces and prevents decay.
- Floss daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. Make it a habit to floss once a day to maintain a clean mouth.
- Use fluoride treatments: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and consider professional fluoride treatments at your dentist’s office.
- Dental sealants: Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the back teeth, where decay often starts. They prevent food particles and bacteria from settling in hard-to-reach grooves and crevices.
- Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and once a year for a dental exam. Regular check-ups help identify and treat tooth decay early before it progresses into more serious stages.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods: Reduce your consumption of sugary foods, sweet drinks, and acidic beverages. Instead, choose healthier options like water, fruits, and vegetables.
- Eat more cheese: Cheese has superpowers, and fights decay, neutralizing the acid produced by the bacteria in the mouth. All cheese is good for your teeth🧀.
Top Dental Care in Mesa, AZ – Schedule Your Visit Now!
Don’t wait until tooth decay becomes advanced.
Prioritize your dental care and get professional treatment to maintain a healthy, strong smile for years to come.
At Power Road Dental Care in Mesa, AZ we offer comprehensive dental services for your all dental needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you achieve optimal oral health.
📞 Call us at (480) 664-1438 to schedule your dental appointment.
📍 Visit our dentist office at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.