Progress of Tooth Decay

Healthy teeth and roots without signs of decay.

Early decay may not be easy for you to notice.

Decay under the surface may be larger than it looks from the outside.

If not treated, tooth decay can cause an abscess and can lead to serious infections.

Abscess

If not treated, tooth decay can cause an abscess (arrow) and can lead to serious infections.

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Common Sites of Decay

Chewing surface decay (Occlusal decay)

Decay in between teeth (Interproximal decay)

Decay at the gum line (Cervical decay)

Root decay (Radicular decay)

Decay Under fillings

Tooth decay can form under fillings.

X-ray of tooth with decay under a filling.