Tooth Decay

Dentists diagnose decay using visual and radiologic examinations.

Decay is usually soft, but not always. A tiny opening in the outer part of the tooth can lead to a large area of decay inside. The decay looks like a discolored area on the outside of the tooth and like the rotten or bruised part of an apple inside. The longer the decay is left without treatment, the larger it will get. Left untreated it will invade the "pulp chamber" in the center of the tooth.
The pulp chamber contains all the blood vessels and nerves which keep the tooth vital. If decay reaches the pulp chamber these vessels and nerves become infected which can result in a painful "toothache". At this point there are only 2 effective courses of treatment - Endodontics (root canal) or removing the tooth (Extraction).
It is extremely important to discover decay before it becomes large. During your check up visit, the hygienist cleans your teeth and takes x-rays of the teeth on an angle which will help show decay if it is present. Discovering decay early is the secret to healthy teeth.

Remember - you do not feel discomfort from decay until it has reached very close to the pulp chamber in the middle of the tooth. By the time you feel pain and realize that you have a problem it is often too late to avoid endodontics or extraction. It is necessary to find and treat dental problems before they become painful.

Last modified: 05/03/04