Tooth decay is a gradual process. Teeth are dissolved away by acid produced in the mouth by bacteria. Micro organisms are found in vast numbers in saliva and plaque. Plaque is a soft, sticky material found on tooth surfaces which can be difficult to remove when sugary foods are eaten or sugary drinks taken, bacteria then feed on the sugar and release acid which gradually dissolve teeth.
What should your dentist be doing in your routine check-up?
Your dentist should be checking for decay at regular check-ups and they should be taking x-rays at regular intervals to look for early decay between the teeth. If early signs of dental decay are present then your dentist can advise you on how to prevent further decay occurring.
Unfortunately if the decay is not addressed and is left to progress, then it can begin to cause symptoms of pain. If the decay reaches the nerve of the tooth and the nerve becomes infected, an abscess may form. Dental abscesses usually occur at the apex of a tooth within the supporting bone and if acute in nature, will give rise to severe pain, swelling and a temperature. The tooth will be very tender to bite and may also become loose and extruded from its socket. The infection results in pus being formed which requires draining. This can be achieved by either:
- removing a tooth
- drilling a cavity in the crown of the tooth in order to expose the nerve chamber and root canal, or
- incision and drainage of the swelling
