Cavities: The Five Stages of Tooth Decay

According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 80% of Americans will have at least one cavity by the time they reach their mid-30s. Cavities form when decay creates tiny holes or openings in your teeth, caused by factors such as bacteria, sugary foods and drinks, and poor oral hygiene.

There are three types of cavities: smooth surface cavities, pit and fissure cavities, and root decay cavities.

• Smooth surface cavities form on the flat surfaces between teeth.
• Pit and fissure decay cavities develop on the tooth’s biting surface.
• Root decay cavities develop on the surface of the tooth’s root, which is exposed due to exposed or receding gums.

There are five stages of tooth decay

Stage 1: Demineralization 

 During the first of the stages of tooth decay, enamel, or the outer layer of your teeth, begins to weaken due to plaque. 

Did you know? Enamel is the hardest substance in your body! 

 

Although enamel is the strongest substance in your body, acid produced by plaque can demineralize and weaken it. Once demineralization has begun, white spots will appear on your teeth. These white spots indicate areas where plaque has begun to weaken your enamel. At this stage, you can begin reversing the damage. Oral fluoride products are a good option until you can see your dentist.

Reflection Ridge is always accepting new patients. Call us today at 316-721-2024 to schedule an appointment! 

 Stage 2: Enamel Decay 

The second stage of tooth decay is when your enamel is weakened to the point it begins to deteriorate. The white spots from demineralization turn brown as cavities begin to form. 

At this stage, a filling is required to prevent a cavity from getting larger. 

Filling cavities is one of our dental services provided here at Reflection Ridge Dental. You can schedule an appointment in person at 7570 W. 21st St. in west Wichita.

 Stage 3: Dentin Decay

The decay of dentin is the third stage of tooth decay. Dentin is located beneath the enamel and is softer and more sensitive to acid damage. If cavities are not treated in time, damage to your enamel can deepen into your dentin, causing pain. That pain includes sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks. 

It is at this stage that tooth decay tends to speed up. If it is caught early enough, it can be fixed with a filling. Otherwise, if too much damage happens, a crown may be required. If you are experiencing toothaches and pains, call us today at 316-721-2024 to schedule an appointment!

Stage 4: Pulp Damage

Stage four of tooth decay is damage to the pulp of your tooth. The pulp is the bottommost part of your tooth, located beneath the dentin, that houses blood vessels and nerves that provide sensation to the tooth. 

If tooth decay spreads to the pulp of your tooth, you may notice swelling and increased pressure that causes pain. Lastly, your pulp may die or become necrotic. When the pulp of a tooth has died, you may notice discoloration of the tooth, a bad smell, swelling, and an unpleasant smell. At this stage, a root canal is required to treat the tooth.  

If you have a tooth in stage four, our dentists at Reflection Ridge Dental can conduct root canals. During the procedure, they will remove the damaged pulp, fill the hole in, and place a crown on the tooth. Read more about root canals here. 

Head to our contact page for more information about scheduling an appointment. 

Stage 5: Abscessed tooth

In the final stage of tooth decay, stage five, abscesses form. These painful infections form at the bottom of a tooth due to bacteria getting into the decaying pulp. 

If a root canal cannot save the tooth, it may need to be extracted to prevent the infection from spreading further into your jaw and head. Antibiotics may be required to kill the bacteria. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene through daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups is essential to keep your smile happy and healthy.  If you’re looking for a family dentist, choose Reflection Ridge Dental.