What Happens When Teeth Decay?

Understanding this common dental problem can help you prevent it.

Most of you reading this blog will probably already be aware that tooth decay is the most common dental problem, with many, if not most of you, already having had a filling or two. We are often led to believe that this is ‘caused by sugar’, and while there is some truth in that, the process of decay is a little more complex.

In today’s blog, we are going to take a look at what happens when tooth decay occurs; from the very start to the worst case scenario if it is not treated in time. Hopefully, this understanding will help our Bedford patients take the appropriate steps to avoid this happening to them.

Plaque

The initial process of decay actually starts just a few hours after you have brushed your teeth. Very gradually, a thin biofilm starts to form on the tooth enamel. This is a sticky substance that allows the bacteria in our mouth to stick to it. These then start to feed on the starches and sugars in our mouth from food and drink residues, and in doing so, produce acids which slowly start to dissolve the protective enamel layer on our teeth.

Demineralisation

As the acids start to attack the enamel, it starts to lose calcium and other minerals. This is largely invisible and undetectable by the patient although sometimes small white spots might appear on the tooth during this process.

At this stage, any damage is reversible providing that you clean your teeth well. The minerals in saliva can help to remineralise your teeth. It is best to avoid constant snacking for this reason and to leave gaps between meals to allow this process to take place.

Cavities

This is when the trouble really starts. If the teeth don’t remineralise, small holes, or cavities, start to form in the tooth. When this happens, the damage is irreversible and you will need to receive treatment at The Dental Centre Bedford. If detected early on, and hence the importance of regular check up appointments, a small filling is the most likely solution. These are now also available in the form of cosmetic white fillings which are almost unnoticeable, as opposed to darker amalgam fillings. The formation of holes helps bacteria and food materials to collect, making affected teeth harder to clean – indeed the decay process may accelerate from this point.

Dentin

Once the bacteria and acids reach the part of the tooth below the enamel, known as the dentin, additional adverse things can start to happen. You might notice some discomfort or even pain at this stage as the decay advances. Larger fillings might also be needed in order to prevent the problem progressing to the root canals.

Pulpitis

If the decay is not stopped, the next stage is when it starts to affect the soft pulp that lies in the root canals of the teeth. Among other things, this pulp contains the nerves of the tooth. As the bacteria affects this area, it becomes inflamed and you are likely to notice a throbbing sensation that can be quite painful. The only way to resolve this particular problem is to undergo a root canal procedure or extraction and replacement with a dental implant or other means. Root canal treatment is a good option though and if you are deterred by any rumours you have heard about it in relation to pain, please talk to our local dentist who will explain in more detail to set your mind at ease.

Necrosis

Leaving the problem above as it is should not be an option. If left, necrosis (death of the pulp material) can occur, leading to abscesses that affect not only the tooth but the surrounding bone and gums. Infection can enter the blood stream which is very dangerous and can potentially become a medical emergency.

While all of the above might sound quite scary, the fact is that decay is relatively easily avoided with good brushing and flossing as well as your regular appointments at our Bedford dental clinic, both for check ups and hygienist appointments. If you do all of the above, the likely worst case scenario is that you may need to have the occasional filling, but hopefully avoiding treatment altogether.

If you have any concerns about some discomfort in a tooth, or if you don’t have appointments already booked to see the dentist and hygienist, why not take the opportunity to correct that now? You can contact our friendly reception team by calling The Dental Centre Bedford today on 01234 819868.