What is the typical result of an advanced caries lesion that extends through the DEJ?

An advanced caries lesion that extends through the enamel and into the dentin has significant implications for tooth health. When caries progress past the enamel and cross the dentin-enamel junction (DEJ), they can continue to invade deeper layers of the tooth structure. This includes the potential to reach the pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.

As decay progresses through the dentin, it compromises the tooth’s structural integrity and can lead to pulpal involvement, which is associated with pain, infection, and further complications if left untreated. The danger lies in the fact that once caries have reached the pulp, it may require more invasive treatment like root canal therapy or extraction of the tooth.

Therefore, understanding that an advanced caries lesion can indeed extend to the pulp is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment planning in dental hygiene practice. This emphasizes the importance of early intervention and regular dental check-ups to manage carious lesions before they advance to this stage.