Signs of Tooth Decay

From birth to the emergence of the first baby tooth, individuals face the risk of tooth decay, one of the most common health issues worldwide. This is particularly prevalent among children, adolescents, and the elderly.

Tooth decay, academically known as dental caries, occurs when bacterial activity breaks down tooth enamel, forming black plaque that corrodes the surface. Over time, this damage extends to the tooth root, intensifying the erosion until the tooth becomes hollowed out—much like an apple bitten by insects, with a visible hole on the surface and the core completely hollowed inside. Over time, this decay inevitably leads to root damage. Thus, the dangers of tooth decay are profound.

Medical research indicates that consuming starchy foods, high-sugar fruits, or lactose-containing milk triggers the production of acid-producing substances by sugar substitutes that corrode teeth. The most prevalent cariogenic bacteria in the human oral cavity are Gram-positive aerobic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus saccharophilus.

Over time, cavities gradually change color from yellow to black, often accompanied by gum pain and difficulty chewing due to inflammation and abscesses around the affected tooth. Severe cases can lead to pulpitis.

Therefore, this article will analyze the symptoms of tooth decay to help identify early signs, enabling timely intervention and prevention.

Cavities don’t develop overnight, but in reality, there are several years between their onset and complete tooth decay—enough time to reverse the damage! Cavities progress from initial decay to a cavity, typically taking 1.5 to 2 years.

The symptoms of tooth decay vary across different age groups, genders, and physical constitutions. Generally, in the early stages of decay, there are typically no noticeable symptoms. However, as decay progresses day after day due to infection by trillions of bacteria in the mouth, it may gradually expand and potentially lead to the following signs:

Tooth Sensitivity

When you experience a sharp, stinging sensation in your teeth from brief exposure to cold foods like ice cream in summer, hot beverages like tea in winter, or even drinking wine and eating cake at parties, it indicates that your teeth have become sensitive. This sensitivity often signals that cavities have already formed, potentially indicating that the decay has progressed to a moderate stage.

Toothache and Other Pains

Through self-examination or when pain drives you to the dentist, you may notice visible holes and pits in your teeth. Pain often occurs while eating. Cavities vary in size, with lesions potentially affecting the tooth surface or extending deep into the gums.Food Trapping and Oral Odor

If food repeatedly gets stuck in the same spot after eating, and emits a foul odor when removed with a toothpick or floss, it may be due to decaying food debris trapped between adjacent teeth. This trapped matter ferments, worsening cavities. Therefore, clean your teeth promptly after meals and use mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.

Changes in Tooth Color

Starting with a pale yellow hue, progressing to brownish tones, then black filaments, and finally black plaque that cannot be rinsed away. This is particularly noticeable on molars with deep fissures, as these areas are most easily overlooked during oral hygiene routines.

Gum Infection

If a dental examination reveals gum infection, this indicates advanced tooth decay. It’s common for cavities to lead to pulpitis, causing red, swollen, and painful gums—even abscesses. The pain can be excruciating. Progressing from early-stage gum bleeding to later tooth loosening, the final stage of tooth decay often necessitates root canal treatment—a lengthy and painful procedure.

Important Notes

The earliest stages of tooth decay often show no noticeable symptoms. Regular dental check-ups (recommended at least once a year) are advised for early detection and treatment. If you experience any of the above signs, seek prompt dental care to prevent further decay.