Decay Detection

Tooth Decay is the progressive destruction of tooth structure in the presence of plaque and sugar over a period of time. The most common places for decay to start are between the teeth (and therefore one of the main reasons you should floss daily), and in the little pits and grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. Early tooth decay does not tend to show many physical signs and might be pain free, but the deeper the decay gets the more painful it becomes. If the decay carries on it can affect the tooth nerve causing serious pain and abscesses.

Using higher magnification and powerful lighting, it is easier to detect decay at an early stage to prevent excessive tooth damage. When cavities are small they are much easier and less expensive to treat. Early tooth decay does not usually show many physical signs. Sometimes the tooth looks healthy, but we will be able to see from an x-ray whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the roots or any bone loss around the tooth.

How can you detect tooth decay?

We can spot decay early with higher magnification and special lighting, and show you the decay using our digital X-ray system. X-rays can show early decay in between the teeth. And the digital x-rays we use reduce radiation exposure by up to four times that of conventional x-rays. Decay in pits and grooves are more difficult to spot because a microscopic hole in the enamel can cause decay in the softer deeper part of the tooth.

How can tooth decay be treated?

Decay can usually be treated by a filling in the cavity. If left untreated, decay can kill the tooth and spread infection under the root, causing an abscess. This may then need a root filling to treat the problem, or even an extraction resulting in the loss of the tooth.