One of the most important roles of dentistry is to prevent and treat tooth decay. According to The American Dental Association, it affects 91% of Americans by the time they reach the age of 20. Fortunately, dentists are trained and equipped to remove tooth decay and restore a patient's good oral health.
In order for decay to begin, the tooth enamel has to be weak enough to break down and allow bacteria to pass through. As demineralization occurs, a white spot often appears on the surface of the tooth, which is a sign the enamel is weakening in that area and prone to decay in the very near future.
Once the enamel surface has broken down, bacteria can enter and start to eat away at the hard surfaces of the tooth, forming a cavity. Cavities can cause further discoloration of the enamel, usually turning it a shade of brown around the area. They often cause some tooth pain or sensitivity as well.
Over time, decay can make its way into the pulp and roots of the tooth, where it can cause serious pain and damage. Once decay reaches this stage, it can significantly weaken the tooth structure and lead to cracks, chips, or crumbling of the tooth. The patient is now at risk for infection and even total tooth loss.
Dentistry can successfully address tooth decay at every stage. However, the type of treatment needed will vary greatly depending on the progression of the dental disease. Patients may also have some options and should discuss every possibility with their dentist.
Before the enamel is completely worn down in a certain spot, dentists can sometimes use fluoride treatments to remineralize the tooth and strengthen the outer covering. Thorough cleanings and tartar removal can help prevent further enamel erosion, along with avoiding sugary and acidic foods.
Once a cavity develops, dentists often need to drill a small hole to access the decay and remove it. The exposed tooth components are cleaned and then sealed for protection and prevention of further decay. In some children, topical treatments can be used to slow the progression of minor tooth decay on baby teeth until they fall out on their own.
When tooth decay is severe and has moved into the pulp or roots of the tooth, serious dental work is often required. This may include removing the damaged tooth structure and sterilizing and sealing the affected roots. New prosthetic tooth coverings will then be placed. In serious cases, extraction may be necessary.
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Tooth decay is a serious dental problem and should be treated as soon as possible. If left to advance on its own, tooth decay can require extensive dental repairs or may even lead to tooth loss. A dentist can recommend the right treatment plan based on how far the decay has progressed. Patients who schedule dental appointments every six months and see a dentist as soon as symptoms arise can often experience less invasive treatment options.
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