What is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is the breakdown of teeth from acids which are produced by bacteria found in the mouth. The cavities can be different colors ranging from yellow to gray or black. Symptoms of tooth decay may include sensitivity, pain, foul odor or bad taste and sticky spots on the teeth. Complications from decay can include inflammation, infection, abscesses, and even the loss of the tooth.

Cavities form when the acid from bacteria breaks down the hard outer tissue of the teeth. The outer tissues include the enamel, dentin and cementum. The destructive acid is produced by bacteria it breaks down from food debris or sugar on the surface of the tooth. When the breakdown of minerals occurs more quickly than they are able to be restored, the process results in a cavity. Risk factors for cavities include any condition which reduces the production of saliva. Medications which decrease the production of saliva can include antidepressants and antihistamines. Tooth decay is also associated with a poor oral hygiene and the presence of gum disease.

To prevent tooth decay, it is important to be thorough in cleaning the teeth through brushing, flossing, maintaining a healthy diet, and small amounts of fluoride. Patients should brush their teeth twice each day and floss daily. You may receive fluoride from community water sources, toothpaste, and other sources. Regular screening for tooth decay can result in early detection and prevention. Based on the extent of the decay, treatments are available to completely restore the tooth. In cases of extreme tooth decay, it may be necessary to remove the tooth.

Around 3.6 billion people or nearly half of the population throughout the world have cavities in their permanent teeth. According to the World Health Organization, nearly all adults will experience tooth decay at some point in their life. Cavities are becoming increasingly common in both children and adults.

It is possible to have tooth decay or a cavity and not even know it. The initial stage of tooth decay includes the presence of a chalky white spot on the surface of the tooth. This indicates that there is an area where the enamel has been demineralized. As decay progresses and continues to demineralize the enamel, it may turn to a brown color but will eventually turn into a cavity. Prior to the formation of a cavity, it is possible to reverse the decay. However, once a cavity forms, the damaged enamel cannot be regenerated. When there is lesion on the tooth which is dark brown and shiny, it suggests there was once tooth decay present, but the process stopped and left a stain in its place. Active decay is lighter and duller.

The cavity is more noticeable once the enamel and dentin are destroyed. Once the decay passes through the enamel, the dentinal tubules are exposed. The dentin acts as a passage to the nerve of the tooth and is quite painful when it is exposed. The pain may be worse when the tooth is exposed to heat, cold, or sweets. When a tooth is weak from internal decay, it may unexpectedly fracture. When the decay has reached the pulp tissue in the center of the tooth, patients often experience a toothache and more noticeable pain. Once decay has reached this stage, the tooth may not be as sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, but it may be quite sensitive to pressure. When the tooth decay progresses beyond possible treatment, the tooth needs to be removed.

More on Tooth Decay : Tooth Decay Symptoms