What Are the Different Stages of Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a scary concern for anyone, but tooth decay is a significant problem that can become worse if not treated in time. Our experts at Premier Periodontics in Bellevue, WA will assist you with your dental health needs to prevent tooth decay from becoming worse.

There are five stages of tooth decay to watch out for. The periodontists at Premier Periodontics can help you identify these stages and provide you with information about how treatment can resolve your dental issues in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA.

1. Demineralization

Demineralization is the first part of tooth decay. The enamel on the outside part of the tooth will start losing the critical minerals necessary for keeping your teeth intact. Bacteria and acids will cause the enamel to start losing those minerals. You may notice some spots on your teeth when they begin losing their minerals.

2. Enamel decay

After demineralization, the next problem you’ll encounter is enamel decay. When the enamel continues to break down, the spots on your teeth will start becoming darker, and cavities will start to form around the teeth at this point. The periodontists at Premier Periodontics in Bellevue, WA can help you fill these cavities to prevent the issue from becoming worse.

3. Dentin decay

The third stage of tooth decay is when the dentin starts to break down, causing discomfort and pain. The dentin is the dental tissue under the enamel that supports the nerves that lead to the tooth. Your teeth will become more sensitive to various things when the dentin starts decaying. If the nerves become exposed, it can lead to substantial pain.

4. Pulp decay

The pulp inside your teeth contains critical blood vessels and nerves necessary for your tooth’s structure. You will experience significant pain if the pulp in your teeth starts to decay. The nerves may start to break apart and will not allow the dental tissue to expand. The bacteria from the decay could spread further into the tooth.

5. Abscess

The last stage of dental decay occurs when an abscess develops in the tooth. The pulp will become exposed and will continue to receive harm. An infection may develop in the opening due to the bacteria and acids continuing to enter the area. The infection will produce an abscess, a development of pus that will appear around the bottom part of the tooth. Sometimes, the sensations in the tooth could spread to other parts of the mouth, including in the gums.

The abscess can become significant to where the entire tooth needs to be removed. The infection from the abscess could spread quickly, so proper treatment is necessary to prevent things from becoming worse.

Contact us today for help with your tooth decay issues

Tooth decay can be dangerous and harmful to your teeth if not properly treated. You can contact us at Premier Periodontics in Bellevue, WA for help resolving any tooth decay issues you may be experiencing. Our expert team at Premier Periodontics provides dental services for men and women in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA.