When you experience sensitivity in and around your gums, it is more likely that you’re experiencing tooth decay. It is one of the common symptoms of a dental emergency that stems from several factors. This includes bacteria forming on teeth due to frequent snacking, poor oral health, poor hygiene habits and general neglect.
These are particularly grave concerns for children due to the number of sugary treats they usually consume. If decay isn’t treated, it can have a deeper effect on your oral health, so much so that it may become unlikely to save affected ones.
Tooth Decay Process
But what is the process of tooth decay? How do they become decayed? We break this down into stages.
- Plaque Build-Up – Strong teeth require good sources of calcium. When there is a lack of it and a large build-up of plaque, the surface will contain white spots. Bacteria then capture the plaque, and they begin to erode from the acid that forms from the bacteria. Acid also weakens and erodes enamel. Enamel is essential for oral health as it acts as a shield to protect from discolouration and decay.
- Erosion Of The Enamel – The decay process starts to attack the enamel. The surface of the tooth is at risk of breaking down. This is the process of cracking. As the enamel dissolves, the acids will then expose the underlying dentin, which is the surface that keeps them white. Once exposed, your teeth will begin to turn darker and a yellow shade. At this point, once the enamel collapses, a dental cavity also begins to form. Usually, a dental filling would be administered when this happens.
- Bacterial Pulp – The dentin exists between the enamel and the pulp, which is the centre of the root. When the pulp is exposed to bacteria, pus forms that damages the nerves. This will be painful and, in this instance, would require root canal therapy.
- Dental Abscess – At this point, if you haven’t visited the dentist yet, you’re in danger of experiencing a dental abscess. This is where bacteria reach all the way down to the root. This is the consequence of not visiting the dentist to treat the dental cavity.
- Tooth Loss – The final stage is when the abscess is so severe that the bacteria continue to make their way through the full tooth, causing severe decay. After an abscess, it becomes damaged beyond repair. Therefore, tooth extraction treatment would be administered to protect your neighbouring teeth from also being damaged.
How to Lessen Cavity at Home
You cannot remove cavities at home. Home remedies for cavities can help slow down the decay process, but won’t eliminate existing cavities. Use fluoride toothpaste, maintain good oral hygiene, and visit a dentist for proper treatment.
Treatment Option
A root canal is administered to a patient if they show signs of erosion and damage. However, only if the underlying gum line and bone are strong enough to preserve the remains of healthy teeth. In this instance, root canal treatment is given, where the affected area is disinfected and cleaned, and the healthy parts are supported with a crown.
If you’re experiencing a dental problem, contact the dentist immediately to ensure the dentist has the best possible opportunity in preserving your oral health. If you’re near Chatswood, then our professional Dentist Chatswood team at Simply Dental Chatswood is happy to restore your oral health. Contact us here to book your appointment.
