Stages of Tooth Decay
One of the most common dental diseases is tooth decay, which affects people of all ages. The disease is characterized by the softening of hard tooth tissues, leading to the destruction of dentin and enamel.
Tooth decay is a gradual process of tissue destruction. Infection usually progresses in several stages influenced by both internal and external factors.
Stages
Depending on the extent of tooth tissue damage, several stages of tooth decay can be distinguished:
- White Spot Stage — A small carious spot becomes visible in the mouth. The enamel remains hard, but color changes indicate the beginning of tissue breakdown. The enamel gradually loses its shine, and demineralization occurs. These early-stage lesions are visible, so treatment should begin with diagnosis. Using special instruments, affected areas can be detected, and preventive measures can be taken. This stage cannot be treated directly, but monitoring and prevention by both patient and dentist are possible.
- Surface Caries — The affected enamel surface develops a porous structure, making it easily damaged during eating or dental examination. This stage is irreversible and requires treatment.
- Medium Caries — The infection spreads beyond enamel to the inner tooth tissues. Sensitivity to sweet and acidic foods increases, and reactions to cold and hot stimuli may appear.
- Deep Caries — The most severe stage, where the damage reaches deep layers and can cause significant pain. Without timely treatment, decay can progress to pulpitis, affecting the tooth pulp. The carious cavity enlarges, trapping food debris, and destruction progresses rapidly.
Cervical caries, which develops near the gum line, is also considered highly dangerous.
It is important to consult a dentist at the first signs of decay. Early intervention increases the chances of preserving dental health and aesthetics, and treatment is faster and less expensive.
Prevention
Preventing tooth decay is much easier than treating its consequences. Prevention plays a key role in detecting damage at an early stage and starting treatment promptly.
The dental team at Kadrioru Plaza Clinic recommends regular dental check-ups. Specialists use professional equipment to perform all necessary procedures efficiently and painlessly. For preventive care, visits to the dentist are recommended 1–2 times a year, ideally every six months. This helps maintain the health of teeth, gums, and the entire oral cavity.
To reduce the risk of tooth decay, it is recommended to use fluoride-containing toothpaste and mouth rinses, limit the consumption of sugary foods, and follow proper oral hygiene practices.
