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Damage to teeth caused by tooth decay can lead to cavities, dental abscesses, or even tooth loss. It is brought on by specific bacterial species that can survive in tooth plaque.

The sugars in your meal can be changed into acids by the bacteria in plaque. These acids have the potential to harm your teeth if plaque accumulation is permitted to continue over time. If you're searching for an emergency dentist near me who is open today, our favourably trained dentists can provide the relief you need.

Phases of dental caries 

Tooth deterioration is facilitated in part by dental plaque. The sticky, white film that coats the surfaces of your teeth is called plaque. Saliva, food particles, and microbes make up its composition. If you don't get your teeth cleaned regularly, plaque can accumulate. Over time, it may also solidify and create tartar.

The first stage of demineralization

Enamel is the sort of tissue that makes up the outer coating of your teeth. The most challenging tissue in your body, enamel, is primarily composed of minerals. Nevertheless, when exposed to the acids plaque bacteria produce, a tooth's enamel loses these minerals.

The second stage: Decay of enamel

Tooth decay will worsen the enamel if it is allowed to persist. On a tooth, a white spot may appear to be turning brown. Small holes called dental caries, or cavity filling, can form in your teeth due to enamel degradation.

The Third stage: Damage to the pulp

The tooth's pulp is its innermost layer. It has blood vessels and nerves that support the tooth's health. The pulp's nerves supply the tooth with feeling as well.

The pulp may get inflamed and begin to swell when injury occurs. Pressure on the nerves may result from the surrounding tissues in the tooth being unable to swell to accommodate the swelling.

The Fourth Stage: Decay of dentin

The tissue underneath the enamel is called dentin. Because it is softer than enamel, acid damage might cause more damage. As a result, when dental decay reaches the dentin, it advances more quickly.

Additionally, dentin has tubes that connect to the tooth's nerves. This is why you may start to feel sensitive when tooth decay affects the dentin. This could be especially noticeable when consuming hot or cold meals or beverages.

Fifth stage: Abscess

As decay advances, bacteria can enter the tooth pulp and cause an infection. Enhanced inflammation in your teeth can lead to an abscess, a pocket of pus starting at the root of your tooth.

Severe discomfort from tooth abscesses may travel into the jaw. Fever, inflated lymph nodes in your neck, and swelling of your gums, face, or jaw are additional symptoms that could exist.

Avoidance 

• Maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial to staving off tooth decay. Here are some tactics to lessen the risk of tooth decay-causing damage to your teeth.
• Visit your dentist near me regularly: Before tooth decay worsens, your dentist can help detect it and provide treatment.
• Dental brushing: Brushing your teeth at least twice daily is typically advised—following meals and Trusted Source. Use fluoride toothpaste, if possible.
• Restrict sweets: Make an effort to stay away from sugar-rich foods and beverages. Soft drinks, cookies, and candy are a few examples.
• To keep your enamel strong and stop it from deteriorating, drink tap water. Most tap water contains the mineral fluoride.
• Steer clear of snacking: Keeping your between-meal snack intake to a minimum will help prevent the bacteria in your mouth from converting more sugars into acids.
• Ask about sealants: The molars on the top of your back teeth are covered in a thin layer of plastic called a sealant. Although molars are necessary for chewing, food particles may become lodged in their grooves.

In summary

Damage to teeth caused by bacteria found in dental plaque is known as tooth decay. These microorganisms change food carbohydrates into acids, which can harm teeth. You can take specific actions to lessen your risk of tooth decay. These include eating less sugary meals, skimming your teeth at least twice daily, and scheduling frequent dental checkups with a Dentist In Houston.