When your dentist detects a weak spot on your tooth, some preventive treatments may be recommended to reverse or arrest the decay process.

If the weak spot is left unchecked, a cavity may form, necessitating a filling.

If decay is allowed to spread, it may penetrate the pulp (nerve) chamber, causing an abscess and requiring root canal treatment.

(also see Biological Root Canal)

Progression of Tooth Decay

Untreated, the cavity becomes larger.

Decay spreads beneath the enamel and can destroy substantial tooth structure.

Decay enters the pulp and an abscess may occur.