Toothache is commonly a sign of tooth decay, a progressive condition that affects the structure of your teeth. At Eastern Dental Group in Wantirna South, we take a proactive approach, catching decay early where possible and treating it with the most conservative option appropriate for your situation.
Call (03) 9887 0822Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a progressive condition where bacteria in the mouth produce acids that gradually erode the hard outer layer of the tooth, the enamel. Over time, this erosion creates cavities, small holes in the tooth surface.
Decay occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and produces acids that wear away at the enamel. If left untreated, decay can penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, reaching the soft inner pulp and causing infection, pain, and eventually tooth loss.
In its early stages, tooth decay often causes no noticeable symptoms, which is why regular check-ups matter. As decay progresses, common signs include:
Toothache or spontaneous pain
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
Visible holes or dark spots on the tooth surface
Pain when biting down
Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
In the very earliest stage, before a cavity has actually formed, enamel can partially remineralise with the help of fluoride from toothpaste, water, and professional fluoride treatments. Once decay has progressed to the point of forming a cavity, however, it can't repair itself and needs professional treatment.
This is why early detection through regular six-monthly check-ups is so valuable, catching decay before it becomes a cavity often means it can be managed without a filling at all.
Treatment depends on the severity of the decay, and your dentist will recommend the most conservative option appropriate for your situation.
In the very early stages, fluoride and improved oral hygiene may be enough to arrest progression before a cavity forms.
Once a cavity has formed, the decayed portion is removed and restored with a tooth-coloured filling.
If decay has reached the inner pulp, root canal treatment removes the infection before the tooth is restored.
Where a tooth is too damaged to save, extraction may be the most appropriate option, with replacement discussed if needed.
Children are particularly susceptible to tooth decay because baby teeth have thinner, softer enamel than adult teeth, making them easier for decay-causing acids to penetrate. Dietary habits, including frequent sweet drinks and snacks, and still-developing brushing routines also contribute to higher risk in younger children.
That said, tooth decay affects adults of all ages too, including older adults whose gum recession exposes the softer root surfaces of teeth to decay. Eastern Dental Group offers children's dentistry and processes claims for eligible patients under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS).
Fissure sealants, thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, are also effective for children and adults at higher risk of decay, and professional fluoride treatments can help strengthen enamel. Visit our preventative dentistry page for more on staying ahead of decay.
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a progressive condition where bacteria in the mouth produce acids that gradually erode the enamel, creating cavities. Left untreated, decay can penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, reaching the soft inner pulp and causing infection and pain.
A combination of bacteria, sugary or starchy foods, and inadequate oral hygiene. Bacteria feed on sugars left on the teeth after eating, producing acids that attack the enamel over time. Frequent sugary snacking, soft drinks, dry mouth, and infrequent check-ups all increase risk.
In the very earliest stage, before a cavity has formed, enamel can partially remineralise with fluoride. Once decay has progressed to an actual cavity, it can't repair itself and needs professional treatment, which is why early detection through regular check-ups is so valuable.
Not always, particularly in the early stages, decay can be completely painless, which is why it's often picked up during a routine check-up rather than because of symptoms. Pain typically develops as decay progresses deeper into the tooth. A toothache that's persistent, worsening, or accompanied by swelling should be treated as urgent.
Children are particularly susceptible because baby teeth have thinner, softer enamel, and dietary habits and developing brushing routines add to the risk. Tooth decay affects adults of all ages too, including older adults whose gum recession exposes the softer root surfaces of teeth. We offer children's dentistry and process CDBS claims for eligible patients.
Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks, drinking fluoridated tap water, avoiding frequent snacking, and attending regular check-ups and cleans every six months. Fissure sealants and professional fluoride treatments can add extra protection for those at higher risk.
Most patients benefit from a check-up and professional clean every six months, with X-rays taken periodically to detect decay in areas not visible to the naked eye. Patients with a higher risk of decay may be recommended more frequent visits. Regular attendance is one of the most reliable ways to catch decay before it needs more complex treatment.
Book online, or call us directly on (03) 9887 0822.
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