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What do you need to know about tooth decay?

What do you need to know about tooth decay?

Who hasn't suffered from tooth decay at some point in their lives? According to the WHO, it is one of the most common diseases worldwide. Surprising, isn't it? However, despite its popularity, it hides many mysteries. That's why, as experts in oral health and endodontics in Tarragona and Salou, we want to explain them to you!

Dental caries can be understood as a damaged area on the surface of the tooth, which gradually transforms into a small hole or opening, which can become permanent. This phenomenon is caused by the action of the bacteria that make up plaque, which attack the enamel and demineralise it.

Therefore, if it is not treated in time, it can affect the deeper layers of the tooth, causing infection and intense pain. In this case, our endodontic service in Tarragona and Salou may be the solution. We'll keep on explaining!

How do you know if you have tooth decay?

At Clínica Dental Moreno-Montalvo, we advise you to make an appointment with us if you suffer from any of the following symptoms, as they are very characteristic of this pathology.

  • Change in the colour of the tooth or presence of a brownish stain.
  • Bad breath.
  • Dental fracture.
  • Holes in the teeth, especially in more advanced cases.
  • Acute pain.

How long does tooth decay take to destroy a tooth?

There is no definite and specific time frame, as it depends on many factors that act differently in each person. However, it is important to know the different stages of caries development:

  • Appearance of white spots: due to the accumulation of plaque and lack of calcium.
  • Enamel damage: occurs when acids begin to damage the tooth enamel.
  • Dentine attack: occurs when caries perforates the dentine causing intense pain.
  • Involvement of the pulp: when caries reaches the pulp, it causes pus to appear.
  • Dental abscess formation: affects adjacent bones by inflaming the gums.
  • Tooth loss: occurs when caries causes an abscessed tooth and surgical intervention is necessary.

When should we resort to endodontics?

Endodontics is one of the most common treatments in dentistry, which allows the partial or total extraction of the damaged pulp of a tooth and the sealing of the pulp canal. The most common symptoms for resorting to endodontics are:

  • Discomfort when chewing.
  • Sensitivity to cold or heat.
  • Development of phlegmon or fistula.
  • Total darkening of the tooth, as it no longer receives the same blood flow.
  • Permanent halitosis.

Our advice is to come to our dental clinic as soon as possible, because if we catch it in time, we may be able to solve it with a filling. At the slightest sign, contactus!

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