DENTAL TIP!! How does tooth decay cause pain?

Decay destroys teeth by dissolving the tooth structure. When only the enamel layer is affected it is quite painless, as the enamel has no nerve supply.

• However, when decay spreads to the sensitive underlying dentine, the nerves register pain in response to hot, cold and sweet food and drinks.
• As the decay penetrates deeper into the tooth, the pain increases in intensity.
  It can vary and be described as being: 
  • intermittent to persistent or continuous.
  • mild, dull, aching, or gnawing, to throbbing, sharp, intense, piercing, severe, and even excruciating!