{"id":6605,"date":"2023-10-02T21:47:26","date_gmt":"2023-10-02T21:47:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.saskatoondentalgroup.com\/?p=6605"},"modified":"2023-10-02T21:47:27","modified_gmt":"2023-10-02T21:47:27","slug":"understanding-tooth-decay-steps-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.saskatoondentalgroup.com\/understanding-tooth-decay-steps-prevention\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Tooth Decay: Steps & Prevention"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”216px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Karla||||||||” text_font_size=”18px” header_font=”Rubik||||||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Saskatoon Dental Group is a locally owned, full-scale Saskatoon dental clinic offering general dentistry services<\/a>. At Saskatoon Dental Group, we are dedicated to offering excellent care to our amazing patients who are like family to us. We are grateful to treat whole families in Saskatoon across multiple generations and have a multicultural team speaking multiple languages. Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages. It occurs when the enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, is gradually eroded by acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. Understanding the steps to tooth decay can help you take proactive steps to prevent it. Here’s a closer look at understanding tooth decay; steps and prevention to safeguard your oral health.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Understanding Tooth Decay: Steps and Prevention<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Step 1: Plaque Formation<\/strong> The journey to tooth decay begins with the formation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth. When you consume sugary or starchy foods, these bacteria feed on the sugars and release acids as byproducts. These acids weaken the enamel and create an ideal environment for decay to thrive.<\/p>\n

Step 2: Enamel Demineralization<\/strong> The acids produced by bacteria cause demineralization of the enamel, which is the first visible sign of trouble. Initially, you might not notice any symptoms, but as the enamel weakens, it can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or sweet foods.<\/p>\n

Step 3: Formation of a Cavity<\/strong> As enamel continues to erode, a small hole or cavity begins to form. At this stage, you may start to experience mild discomfort or pain when eating or drinking. If left untreated, the cavity will progress and become larger over time.<\/p>\n

Step 4: Dentin Decay<\/strong> Once the cavity extends beyond the enamel and reaches the dentin, the inner layer of the tooth, the decay accelerates. Dentin is softer than enamel, making it easier for the bacteria to penetrate and spread. You may experience more significant pain and sensitivity at this stage.<\/p>\n

Step 5: Pulp Involvement<\/strong> If tooth decay continues to progress without intervention, it can reach the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. This stage is incredibly painful and often requires a root canal procedure to save the tooth.<\/p>\n

Step 6: Abscess Formation<\/strong> In the most severe cases, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, leading to the formation of an abscess. Abscesses can cause intense pain, swelling, and even systemic health problems if left untreated.<\/p>\n

When you understand tooth decay: Prevention is Key<\/strong> Thankfully, tooth decay is largely preventable. Here are some essential steps to protect your teeth:<\/p>\n