Tooth decay can develop quickly once the outer layer of enamel has been breached. If the decay reaches the softer dentin layer inside your tooth then your body will begin to give you clear signs. Dentin is the porous layer just below the enamel and is considered by dentists as being the layer that protects the live nerve center of the tooth. Knowing what can happen if the decay reaches this layer means you can treat it quickly, preventing serious infections.

What Are the Different Layers of Tooth Enamel?

There are several layers found inside teeth. The outer layer of enamel is the hardest material inside the human body. This enamel layer has high amounts of minerals but no live cells. As there are no live cells in enamel then it cannot repair itself once plaque acids begin to break it down.

Inside the tough enamel layer you will find the dentin. This is made up of millions of tiny holes known as dentinal tubules. These dentinal tubules link directly to the center of the tooth (pulp). If tooth decay breaks through the enamel layer then these tiny tubules become exposed. This allows bacteria to move down the holes.

How Do Bacteria And Acids Break Down Dentin?

Bacteria in the mouth will eat the sugary foods and sticky starchy foods left on your teeth. These tiny bacteria will break down the sugary foods creating harsh acids. These acids will then begin to break down the calcium crystals inside the enamel.

If the decay reaches dentin then things start to get worse. As enamel is very hard, it is much softer and has less minerals. The dentin lacks the hardness of enamel meaning it can easily be broken down by the bacteria. The decay will spread across and down inside your tooth creating a pocket of infection underneath.

What Are the Common Symptoms Of Dentin Decay?

When your tooth decays and reaches dentin then your mouth will give you clear signs. Unlike the enamel layer which has no nerve endings, the dentin will send any sensations down to the pulp.

• Hot/Cold Sensitivity

Sudden sharp pains when drinking hot coffees, icy water or cold fruit.

• Sugary/Acid Sensitivity

A slight tinging sensation or sharp pain when consuming sugary foods or acidic drinks.

• Discoloration

The enamel on the outside will start to become white, dark brown or black.

• Food Gets Stuck

Food will get stuck in the cavity created.

• Mild Pressure Sensitivity

Slight pressure pain when biting down onto hard foods.

Why Does Dentin Decay Spread Quickly?

Many patients wonder why small cavities can create big problems. Dentin is a softer tissue with more proteins than enamel.

Acid will cause the dentin to quickly break down as it has lots of organic material. The dentinal tubules allow bacteria to move quickly down to the pulp. If you don’t treat the dentin symptoms then within a few weeks the bacteria will move into the pulp. This will cause severe toothache, irreversible pulpitis and painful abscesses that require root canal or extractions.

What Are the Treatments For Dentin Decay?

Dentists will treat dentin decay with careful restorations to ensure the infection doesn’t reach the live nerve. If you attend your dental clinic quickly then your dentist will leave most of the natural tooth.

• Composite Fillings

Your dentist will remove the infected dentin. Then they will clean the cavity and fill it with a tooth colored composite.

• Inlays/Onlays

If the cavity is large across your chewing points then your dentist will create a bespoke porcelain inlay/onlay.

• Glass Ionomer Cements

These special cements often used in children’s teeth or root surfaces release fluoride and will stick to the dentin.

• Fluoride Varnishes

Dentists will apply fluoride to remineralise the dentin.

How Can You Prevent Tooth Decay From Reaching Dentin?

You can prevent decay from reaching the dentin by keeping your teeth clean each day. Here are some easy ways to help your natural smile.

Brush 2 Times A Day

Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste in the morning and evening.

Floss Daily

Floss between all your teeth.

Reduce Sugary Snacks

Limit your intake of sticky sweets, fizzy drinks and sugary drinks.

Drink Water

Drink water to rinse your mouth.

Attend Regular Check Ups

Attend your dentist every 6 months for early cleanings, digital x-rays and cavity detection.