Tooth decay is the leading cause of tooth pain. The symptoms of tooth decay can be hard to notice at the early stages. However, it is possible to know when a cavity caused by tooth decay is developing either during a dental check-up or by paying attention to the symptoms of decay. When you identify the presence of tooth decay, you must seek dental help as soon as possible because its advancement can lead to chronic pain or tooth loss. Find the best general dental treatment options for you or your loved one at Lovett Dental Upper Kirby by calling 713-490-8888 today.
How Does Tooth Decay Occur?
Tooth decay is caused by plaque, which contains bacteria that feed on sugars from foods and drinks between the teeth. This bacteria generates lactic acid as a byproduct that is responsible for enamel destruction. Lactic acid dissolves calcium on the enamel, thus weakening it. The enamel gradually wears off, eventually causing a hole in your tooth called a cavity. If not treated early enough, tooth decay progresses, and these cavities grow deeper, reaching the roots of the teeth.
What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay?
As tooth decay advances, noticeable symptoms begin to appear. These include:
Toothache
As the tooth decays, the cavity may get to the nerves connected to the tooth, causing pain. When you feel continuous or sharp random pain on your tooth, make sure to follow up with your dentist to identify its cause.
Tooth Sensitivity
When eating something sugary, hot, or cold, you will notice a sensitivity on your teeth that could be slightly painful.
Cavities
As the enamel gets eaten away by decay-causing bacteria, holes appear on the tooth. Sometimes you will not notice them on the surface level, but your dentist can identify them by a dental x-ray.
Stains on Your Teeth
Black or brown dots on the surface of your teeth should be taken just as seriously as a cavity since they may be a symptom of tooth decay.
Bad Breath
Decay-causing bacteria cause bad breath in your mouth. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly, this may be noticeable.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Even though tooth decay is a common problem, it is preventable. Therefore, you should always take the necessary precautions to prevent tooth decay from occurring. Ensure that your gums and teeth are in a healthy condition at all times. You can achieve this by taking measures such as:
- Doing a regular dental check-up
- Brush your teeth properly using the right kind of toothbrush and fluoride paste at least twice a day
- Avoid smoking and drinking excessively
- Floss your teeth regularly
- See a dentist when you immediately see any symptoms of decay
- Take a healthy diet
What Are the Treatment Options for Tooth Decay?
The sooner you seek treatment for your tooth decay, the easier and cheaper it will be to manage. When you go for a dental check-up, your dentist will do an x-ray or a procedural examination to identify any tooth decay symptoms. Your dentist will then walk you through the treatment options and help you choose the most suitable one depending on the severity of your tooth decay. These options include:
Schedule an Appointment at Lovett Dental Upper Kirby Today
At Lovett Dental Upper Kirby, we take pride in giving you the best dental experience. Our dental services include:
- Teeth cleaning services
- Cosmetic dentistry services
- Pediatric dentistry services
- Tooth extractions services
- Teeth whitening services
If you notice any symptoms of decay on your teeth, contact Lovett Dental Upper Kirby at 713-490-8888. We care about your oral health, and our professional dentists will treat your tooth decay and other dental-related problems.
