Early Warning Signs of Tooth Decay and What to Do About it

Tooth Decay is one of the most common dental conditions suffered by those living in the UK.

In fact, a report conducted for National Smile Month found that one in three (31%) of UK adults have tooth decay. This is because many of the foods and drinks we consume during the day are acidic or contain high levels of sugar and can damage the teeth and wear down enamel, which is why it’s important to keep up a good oral health routine.

Dr Smita Mehra, BDS MFGDPRCS and Principal Dentist here at The Neem Tree Dental Practices, has revealed 7 early warning signs to look for that you may have tooth decay, as well as action to take to prevent the problem from worsening.

The Anatomy of a Cavity: How Tooth Decay Develops

Understanding how cavities form is key to knowing how tooth decay starts and how to stop it. Tooth decay happens when your teeth, bacteria, and sugars in your diet interact. The layers of your teeth—enamel, dentin, and pulp—play a big role in this.

Enamel is the hard, outer layer of your teeth and acts as the first shield against decay. However, it can be damaged. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from the food you eat, creating acids that attack the enamel. This acid attack causes the enamel to lose minerals, and if this isn’t stopped, tiny holes or cavities can form.

Once the enamel is damaged, decay can go deeper into the tooth. The next layer is the dentin, which is softer and more prone to decay. If bacteria get through to the dentin, the cavity can keep growing until it reaches the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are. This can cause severe pain and infection and may need treatments like root canals or tooth removal.

Preventing tooth decay is very important, and knowing how it happens helps you act. Brushing and flossing regularly remove food particles and plaque, and regular dental check-ups can catch problems early before cavities form. By keeping good oral hygiene and watching what you eat, you can lower the risk of tooth decay a lot.

Early Warning Signs of Tooth Decay

Tooth Sensitivity

One of the earliest warning signs that you have tooth decay is experiencing sensitivity of the teeth. This usually occurs when eating hot or cold foods, and is often because of the underlying layer of your teeth – dentine – becoming exposed as due to erosion or decay of the protective enamel on top. This means any hot or cold stimuli go straight to the pulp chamber under the dentine which is where the nerves sit and cause pain.

Discolouration of the teeth

Another visible sign that you may have tooth decay, is discolouration of the teeth. You may notice stains on your teeth first appear as white spots, and then as the decay becomes more advanced change to a darker, brown or yellow colour that is chalky in texture. Although it is possible that darker spots on the teeth may be natural stains caused by strongly pigmented foods like coffee, red wine or beetroot, dark spots on the teeth usually indicate cavities.

Visible Holes or Cavities

When you have tooth decay, you may be able to see visible symptoms on your teeth. If the dark or yellow spot on your teeth becomes worse, it can eventually form a hole or put in the surface of the tooth, that you may be able to feel when you run your tongue along your teeth. However, some holes or crevices caused by tooth decay, may not actually be visible or felt by you. So, if you have any pain, discomfort or sensitivity in the area, it is important that you get it checked out by a dentist.

Bleeding and Sore Gums

While bleeding and sore gums aren’t an indication that you have tooth decay on their own, they can be a sign that you have or are in the early stages of gum disease – a condition caused by tooth decay. It is therefore important that if you begin to experience swollen or bleeding gums, or any other pain in the affected area that you contact your dentist immediately for treatment. Leaving gum disease untreated can lead to a whole host of more serious problem such as teeth falling out or needing to be removed as a result.

Bad Breath or Bad Taste in the Mouth

Another common sign that you may been in the early stages of tooth decay is experiencing bad breath or experiencing a bad taste in your mouth. This happens because cavities are infected areas of the mouth, that collect food particles, meaning it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria to build up, which eventually releases gases into your mouth that let off an unpleasant smell or odour.

Pain or Mouth Swelling

Most commonly if you have a cavity or are in the early stages of tooth decay, you may begin to experience tooth ache or pain in the affected area of the mouth. This pain tends to be consistent until it is treated by a professional, no matter if you are eating, drinking or talking.

Tips for preventing Tooth Decay

No one likes experiencing problems in their mouth, but when it comes to oral hygiene there are some simple and effective steps you can take to help prevent tooth decay:

1. Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Establish a good flossing routine using a water flosser or dental floss, making sure to clean between the teeth at least once a day.
3. Drink water consistently throughout the day to help encourage saliva production, as having a dry mouth can increase your chances of developing cavities.
4. Change your diet, swapping out sugary foods and drinks for crunchy vegetables, cheese, or dairy products.
5. Most importantly, make sure you see your dentist for regular check-ups and cleaning, as they can help to spot early signs of tooth decay, and help you take any preventative measures.

Natural Remedies for Early-Stage Tooth Decay

When dealing with early tooth decay, many might not realise how helpful natural remedies can be. While seeing a dentist is vital for serious problems, using natural methods in your daily routine can support your oral health and possibly stop decay from getting worse.

1. Coconut Oil
   • Has antibacterial properties that fight bacteria causing tooth decay.
   • Try oil pulling by swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes.
   • Can reduce plaque and promote healthier gums.
2. Xylitol
   • A natural sugar found in many fruits and vegetables.
   • Reduces bacteria that cause cavities.
   • Chewing gum with xylitol or adding it to your diet can protect your teeth by making it harder for bacteria to cause decay and helping to restore tooth enamel.
3. Herbal Rinses
   • Herbs like sage and chamomile have antimicrobial properties and can soothe gum inflammation.
   • Make a tea with these herbs and use it as a mouthwash to improve your oral health.
4. Nutritious Diet
   • Eat foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, like dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts, to strengthen and remineralize your teeth.
   • Foods high in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and egg yolks, are also essential for keeping your teeth and bones strong.

These natural remedies can be helpful in the early stages of tooth decay but should be used alongside regular dental check-ups and professional treatments. Using these natural methods can help protect your teeth and prevent decay. Remember, it’s easier to prevent tooth problems than to treat them!

Regular Dental Check-ups: Why They Matter

Regular dental check-ups are key to keeping your mouth healthy and preventing tooth decay. Many people think these visits aren’t very important but going to the dentist at least twice a year is very important for several reasons.

First, professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing might miss. Even if you clean your teeth well, some deposits can still build up, leading to cavities and gum disease. During these cleanings, your dentist or hygienist can give you advice on how to care for your teeth at home, making sure you use the best techniques and products.

Second, regular check-ups let your dentist spot early signs of tooth decay and other problems before they get worse. Dentists can notice small changes in your oral health that you might miss, like early cavities, enamel wear, or gum inflammation. Catching these problems early means you can fix them before they require painful and expensive treatments.

Dental visits also include checks for oral cancer and a look at your overall dental health. These thorough exams catch any potential issues early, allowing for quick treatment and a better outcome.

Finally, regular visits help build a good relationship with your dentist, making you feel more comfortable discussing any concerns. When you trust your dentist, you’re more likely to follow their advice and keep up with preventive care.

In short, regular dental check-ups are essential for your oral health. By prioritising these visits, you’re taking a big step in preventing tooth decay and maintaining a healthy smile. Don’t wait for problems to appear—book your appointment today and keep your teeth in great shape.

In conclusion, knowing the early signs of tooth decay and using simple preventive measures is essential for keeping your teeth healthy. With advice from a top dentist, you can now spot potential problems early, ensuring you and your family can enjoy bright smiles for years.

Remember, regular dental check-ups, a balanced diet, and good oral hygiene are your best friends in preventing decay. By being proactive today, you can protect your teeth from harm and maintain your overall health.