Tooth decay is damage that occurs when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that destroy the tooth’s protective enamel. This causes a hole in the affected tooth called a cavity. If left untreated, the decay may cause serious complications.
Read on for more information about the health effects of cavities:
Symptoms
The symptoms of a cavity may vary. In fact, there may not be any signs at all during its early stages. However, if left untreated, the decay may worsen and a patient may exhibit the following:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something cold, hot, or sweet
- Pain when you bite down
- Black, brown or white stains on the surface of the tooth
- Visible pits or holes in the affected tooth
- Chronic halitosis, despite brushing teeth regularly
- Toothaches
Development of Decay
The rate of decay is usually gradual. Tooth decay goes through the following steps:
- Plaque is formed
Dental plaque is the sticky film that coats your teeth. This is produced when you consume food and drinks that are rich in starch and sugar. It is worsened by lack of oral care. When you forget to brush and floss, bacteria feeds, forming plaque. When plaque is not removed, it hardens under the gum line and forms tartar. Tartar makes plaque difficult to remove. - Plaque attacks the enamel
The acid produced by plaque wears away minerals in your tooth’s enamel. When it is all worn away, acid and bacteria reaches the next layer of the tooth, called the dentin. The dentin is softer and more vulnerable than enamel and is directly connected to the sensitive nerves of a tooth. - The destruction of your tooth continues
As decay develops, bacteria and acid continue to move deeper through the tooth until it reaches the pulp, which contains blood vessels and nerves. Once bacteria penetrates the pulp, it becomes swollen and irritated. With no space for the swelling to expand, the nerves press together, causing pain.
Effects of Tooth Decay
If left untreated, tooth decay can cause the following complications:
- A tooth abscess that, if infected, can trigger additional complications (e.g. infections entering the bloodstream)
- An increased risk of breaking or chipping a tooth
- Chronic tooth pain
- Difficulties chewing
- Development of pus around the infected tooth
- Tooth loss
Brushing and flossing your teeth every day, as well as regular visits to the dentist, can prevent or control tooth decay and the resulting pain and aggravation. A regular dental checkup can go a long way!
If you are in need of a dentist in Brampton, make an appointment with Springfield Dental Centre. Call us today at (905) 458-1212.
