Pasadena, Deer Park Texas Dentist: Tooth Decay / Cavity
Dental decay is the result of the waste products of bacteria. To be blunt, bacteria in your mouth “poop” acid. Bacteria like to hide in the grooves in your teeth and along the gum line. When you don’t brush and floss well or are eating too much sugar, you will get dental decay. The bacteria’s acid will slowly eat away your tooth structure. Once the decay has perforated the tooth it keeps advancing towards the nerve. Once the bacteria get far enough into the tooth, the nerve will die, causing extreme pain. The decayed tooth will crumble.
The best course of action is to brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush twice a day and floss once a day. Use a mouth rinse like Listerine to kill bacteria. Lastly, limit your sugar intake.
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems we treat in our Pasadena dental office. Left untreated, decay can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. But how does it happen—and what can you do to stop it?
In this educational video, Dr. Nugent visually explains how cavities form when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up on your teeth. These bacteria feed on sugars and carbohydrates, producing acids that break down your tooth enamel.
Stages of Tooth Decay:
Plaque formation on the tooth surface
Acid attack weakens enamel
Cavities form in the dentin layer
Advanced decay can reach the pulp and cause infection
Once a cavity forms, it won’t go away on its own. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment—such as fillings or sealants—are essential.
Tooth Decay Prevention Tips:
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss every day
Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Visit our Pasadena office regularly for cleanings and checkups
At Michael Nugent DDS, we’re dedicated to helping patients of all ages maintain healthy, cavity-free smiles. Visit our office at 3421 Burke Rd, Ste A, Pasadena, TX 77504.