More than 1 in 4 or 26% of American adults have untreated tooth decay. If cavities are ignored, they may lead to infection, severe toothache, and tooth loss.
There are five stages of tooth decay, from demineralization to abscess formation. These stages progress over time and can be used to determine the severity of the decay.
Familiarizing yourself with the tooth decay stages is crucial in preventing its progress. Early detection and treatment of tooth decay are essential to prevent further damage and loss.
Read on to learn about the five stages of tooth decay and what treatments are appropriate for each.
Stage 1: Demineralization
Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth combine with sugary or starchy foods to form plaque. This sticky film of plaque clings to your teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth.
The first stage occurs when the enamel is demineralized. During this stage, the tooth may appear white or chalky. There is usually no pain associated with this stage as the enamel remains intact. Enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body, so it can take some time for the acids to eat through it.
Symptoms
The first stage of tooth decay may not have any symptoms except a change in the color of your tooth. The tooth may appear white or chalky. There may also be a decrease in luster or shine.
Treatment
If the plaque is not removed, the acids will continue to eat through the enamel and reach the next stage. However, the enamel can remineralize with a thorough dental cleaning and plaque removal. This means minerals are deposited back into the enamel, making it stronger.
There are a few things you can do to remineralize your teeth:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Eat foods rich in calcium and phosphate
- Get fluoride treatment from your dentist
- Use a fluoride mouthwash
The effects may no longer be reversible when the decay has broken through the enamel.
Stage 2: Enamel Decay
The second stage of tooth decay is when the acids have fully worn down the enamel and are close to reaching the dentin. The effects may no longer be reversible when the decay has broken through the enamel.
Lesions can also form during this stage if the decay is not detected earlier. These lesions can be painful when they come into contact with hot or cold food and drink. They usually appear as small, dark spots on the tooth.
Symptoms
Similar to the first stage, there’s almost no sign of pain or discomfort. However, you may see small cavities or pits in your teeth. The tooth may also appear yellow or brown. Depending on how far the decay has progressed, you may also see holes in your teeth.
Treatment
At this stage, the enamel can no longer remineralize. The only way to treat this stage of tooth decay is to remove the decay and then fill the tooth. This can be done with a simple filling or a more complex procedure, such as a root canal.
Stage 3: Dentin Decay
Decay reaches the dentin, a softer tissue than enamel, and is more susceptible to damage. It is the layer under the enamel containing the nerves and blood vessels. When decay reaches this stage, it can be very painful.
Tooth decay generally speeds up once it reaches the dentin. The decay process can go from months to weeks at this stage. Dentin contains tubes that lead to the tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue in the tooth’s center that contains blood vessels and nerves. When decay reaches the pulp, it can cause an infection.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of tooth decay at this stage can include:
- Severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Visible holes or cavities in the teeth
- Pain when biting or chewing
Treatment
At this stage, the tooth decay needs to be removed and the tooth filled. The procedure is similar to stage two, but the filling may be larger and more complex. Sometimes, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth. Consider visiting a dentist if you experience any of the symptoms above.
Stage 4: Pulp Decay
At this point, decay has reached the pulp, the soft tissue in the tooth’s center containing blood vessels and nerves. When decay reaches this stage, it can cause an infection.
The infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and cause abscesses. Abscesses are pus-filled pockets that form when infection or decay spreads. They can be very painful and cause serious health problems if left untreated.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms at this stage can include:
- Severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Visible holes or cavities in the teeth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Bad breath
Treatment
The procedure is similar to stage three, but the filling may be larger and more complex. Sometimes, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth. If the infection has spread, you may need antibiotics. In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
Stage 5: Abscess
Once the decay worsens and reaches the tooth’s pulp, it can cause an infection. The infection can then lead to an abscess.
Abscesses are pus-filled pockets that form when infection or decay spreads. They often look like small pimples on the gums.
The abscess usually starts at the bottom of your tooth and spreads to the surrounding tissues. They can be very painful and trigger serious health conditions if left untreated.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of an abscess can include:
- Throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Visible holes or cavities in the teeth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Bad breath
Treatment
The tooth decay needs to be removed and the tooth filled. Depending on the severity of the decay, you might need a root canal or medications. If the abscess is severe, you may need to be hospitalized.
Dentists can use x-rays to check for decay that has not yet reached the tooth’s surface.
Common FAQs about Tooth Decay
What does tooth decay look like?
Tooth decay can range in color from white to black. It usually starts as a white spot on the tooth and then progresses to a brown or black cavity. Yellow and brown teeth may also be a sign of tooth decay.
How do I know if I have tooth decay?
The best way to know if you have tooth decay is to visit a dentist. Dentists can use x-rays to check for decay that has not yet reached the tooth’s surface.
Can tooth decay be reversed?
Tooth decay can be reversed in its early stages. This is done by removing the plaque and tartar from the teeth and using fluoride to strengthen the enamel. However, once tooth decay has reached the dentin, it can be harder to treat it.
Can tooth decay be prevented?
Definitely. Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, help remove plaque from the teeth. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary drinks and snacks help prevent tooth decay. Regular dental checkups are also important to catch any decay early and prevent it from worsening.
What are the consequences of not treating tooth decay?
When left untreated, the decay can spread to the tooth’s pulp and cause an infection which may then lead to an abscess.
Book an Appointment with a Trusted Scottsdale Dentist
If you are experiencing any symptoms of cavity or decay, visit your dentist as soon as possible. Dentists can provide proper diagnosis and develop a preventive treatment plan to restore your smile and improve your oral health.
Rod W. Gore DDS is here to help you get the reliable dental care you need. We are a premier Scottsdale family dentist offering affordable and personalized dental care. We offer a wide range of dental services, from routine cleaning to restorative dentistry options such as tooth fillings, dental crowns, and full-mouth restoration.
Schedule an appointment now and achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.