Tooth decay is also called by the name of caries. You may find no symptoms of caries in the initial stages. A small scrap of demineralised enamel appears on the surface of the tooth at first. Only a dentist can figure out such a patch on the tooth surface. Teeth become sensitive to cold or hot in the advanced stages of tooth decay. Dentists use an instrument called explorer to spot this. When the cavity reaches the pulp stage, pain and swelling may appear.
Symptoms
The most obvious sign of tooth decay is toothache, particularly after hot or cold foods or drinks. However, pain may not be present until decay has reached an advanced stage.
Pits or holes may also be visible in the teeth.
Most tooth decay is discovered at an early stage during a routine check up.
A serious complication can be the development of a tooth abscess – the build up of pus resulting from a bacterial infection of the centre of the tooth.
Infection may spread out from the root of the tooth and to the bones supporting the tooth.
Plaque and tartar also irritate the gums, and lead to a gum disease called gingivitis.
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