In this message from The Gentle Art of Dentistry in Houston we discuss something about cavities you might not know. You may have heard that once tooth enamel is eroded, it’s gone forever. This is not entirely true. In the earliest stage of enamel erosion, a cavity can be reversed.
Here are the five stages of a cavity.
Stage 1: Attack of the Little White Spots
The tooth begins to show signs of damage. White spots appear. They are under the surface of the enamel, but you can see them from the outside.
Demineralization will result in these spots. When they occur in children’s molars, it can be easy for parents to miss them. That’s why daily dental hygiene and regular dental exams are crucial.
It this stage, it’s possible to halt a cavity before it needs a filling. Dental hygiene can stop the erosion. Fluoride can remineralize the enamel.
Can Stage 1 be reversed? Yes!
Stage 2: Enamel Decay
Did you know that tooth decay begins under the surface of the enamel?
The visible enamel is intact for the first part of Stage 2. Then the hole busts through the surface.
Can Stage 2 be reversed? No…but the tooth can probably be saved.
Stage 3: Going Deeper Into the Dentin
The decay breaks down the enamel and hits the soft dentin layer that lies below. This is an advanced cavity.
The good news?
The decay hasn’t yet reached the pulp. It will, however, start to cause pain.
Can Stage 3 be reversed? No…but maybe the tooth won’t need a root canal.
Stage 4: Ouch! The Decay Hits the Pulp
Hopefully, your youngster will never suffer stage 4. This is very painful. The infection has reached the pulp where the nerves are located. Unfortunately, a root canal is the only treatment option. Unless, of course, the tooth is extracted.
Remember, childhood cavities are completely preventable.
Can Stage 4 be reversed? No…and it must be treated with a root canal.
Stage 5: Abscess Distress
The decay (and infection) has traveled through the pulp and out the end. In the final stage, it drills through the tip. Now the infection is in the tissue and bone surrounding the tooth root. The area swells up and it’s exceptionally painful.
It’s also hazardous for anyone’s health. This is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of the body. Abscesses originating in a tooth can be fatal.
Can Stage 5 be reversed? No…and can be life threatening.
Protect yourself and your loved ones from tooth decay so you all have a healthy smile for life.
Patients from throughout East Spring, West Cypress, and Klein come to The Gentle Art of Dentistry in Houston for general and cosmetic dentistry. Call to schedule an appointment with us today!
Contact The Gentle Art of Dentistry:
281-469-8026
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
102 Vintage Park Blvd, Suite D
Houston, Texas
77070
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