Caries on Front Teeth: Why It Appears and What It Looks Like

You look in the mirror and see a spot on a front tooth that wasn't there before, or a dark dot right at the gumline. Let's calmly break down what caries of the front teeth is, where it comes from, and how it is recognized at an appointment.

What caries of the front teeth is

Caries is a chronic disease of the teeth in which acids released by bacteria destroy the hard tissues. The enamel is affected first: it loses minerals, then the destruction reaches the dentin and a cavity forms. Front teeth are in no way protected from this process — they are likewise covered with enamel and likewise come into contact with plaque.

Why caries appears on the front teeth

The mechanism is simple: bacteria in the mouth combine with food remnants and form a sticky plaque. From sugars and starch they produce acids, and these leach minerals out of the enamel. Enamel is 96% minerals and begins to break down already at pH 4.5. If plaque is not removed regularly, mineral loss accumulates. Plaque lingers for a long time in natural fissures and the spaces between teeth. The risk is higher if there is little saliva, a lack of fluorides, and a lot of sweets and starchy foods in the diet.

What caries on the front teeth looks like at different stages

At the very beginning it is a white spot — an area where the enamel has lost minerals. At this stage the process can still be stopped or reversed. Then the spot darkens: white, brown, or black spots appear on the surface of the tooth. When the enamel is destroyed, a cavity forms — a hole that does not heal on its own. Carious cavities come in different colors, from yellow to black.

• A white spot on the enamel
• A brown or black spot
• A cavity (a small hole) in the tooth
• Pain or a sharp reaction to sweet, hot, and cold

What internal caries of a front tooth is

At an early stage caries often causes no symptoms, and it can be noticed only by a white spot where the enamel has lost minerals. Gradually the destruction proceeds from the enamel to the dentin and further to the pulp. It is detected by examination, probing, and, if necessary, an X-ray. If the destruction reaches the pulp, an infection and a collection of pus may develop inside the tooth.

How caries of the front teeth is diagnosed

The dentist examines the teeth and probes them with instruments, and asks about complaints. Sometimes an X-ray is needed. Separately, the doctor may assess susceptibility to caries: an examination of the oral cavity and tests — staining of the enamel, assessment of plaque, and of the tissues' resistance to acids. In this way he determines how high the susceptibility to caries is.

Why advanced caries is dangerous and when to see a dentist

Without treatment the destruction continues: pain appears, a reaction to hot, cold, and sweet, and an infection with an abscess may set in. An abscess causes pain, facial swelling, and fever. You should see a dentist if there are problems with the teeth — pain or sharp pain when eating and drinking, and also if the gums hurt, swell, or bleed when brushing. Regular check-ups are needed even without complaints: if there has been no check-up for 2 years, and before age 18 — for 1 year, it is time to make an appointment.

A spot on a tooth is not in itself a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 if, against the background of a painful tooth, facial swelling rapidly increases and a high temperature has risen.

The material is for reference: only a doctor at an appointment can make a diagnosis and choose a course of action.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer