Identifying & Treating Tooth Decay
Dental decay is the breakdown of the enamel surface of the teeth. The first sign of tooth decay is demineralization of the teeth. The white spots appear due to the loss of calcium and the build-up of plaque on the teeth. Next, the teeth will develop cavities within the tooth. Cavities that spread into the tooth's center (pulp) will likely cause a toothache and require a root canal. If infection spreads to the root of the teeth, an abscess (infection) may form causing severe pain, swelling, and possible bone infection. At this stage, oral surgery may be necessary.
Common symptoms of dental decay include tooth sensitivity, swelling, throbbing pain, dark spots on the teeth, holes in the teeth, and chronic pain. Decayed teeth are more susceptible to breakage and infection. For this reason, cavities are best treated early to prevent infection, severe pain, and further damage to the teeth. Early cavities are easy and inexpensive to fix with a simple filling. A filling usually costs between $90-250 without insurance. With insurance, copays are around $20 - $150 depending on plan benefits. However, root canals are much more costly at around $900-$1,100 without insurance and $300-$700 with insurance.