The spot you see may be deterioration, especially if it is becoming noticeably less smooth to your eyes. How much is the next question. Decay can appear as brown, yellow or even hyperwhite 'stains' on your teeth which can deteriorate over years before they need restorative attention. As stated in other answers, it can start simply as a stain and can become more like a cavity as the deterioration progresses. Your dentist will help you to understand the extent of the concern and may recommend polishing for stains, smoothing or even a filling to remove any decay, to make the appearance better and to allow for easier cleaning. This would help to prevent further decay. Kudos for being attentive to your teeth!

When bacteria is left on teeth and the bacteria is exposed to sugary foods, it produces acid. The acid then dissolves the tooth, making holes (cavities) in the tooth. The dissolving process on the tooth starts as a rough white patch, then it turns yellow, then brown.

The best way to know is an examination by a dentist. It sure sounds like the start of a cavity though...

will really need a more information for a better diagnosis. differential diagnosis can include thinning of enamel for example by grinding, decalcification, or presence of tooth decay, ... a better description and clinical evaluation would be the next step!

The best way to determine this is to see a dentist. Yellow spots can indicate decalcification or wear of the enamel at the edges of the incisors. Your description is not specific enough to make a good determination. It must be evaaluated by a doctor.

What you've described does sound like the decay process has started on your tooth; however, there are other factors that could be at play. You should see a dentist immediately to assess whether or not it is decay. It's best to catch it when it has just started so the most conservative filling possible can be done. Your dentist can advise you on whether or not a filling is needed and can help you prevent further decay.

Might be tartar (also called calculus) if its being deposited on the surface (ie rough because its getting built up); might be the beginnings of a cavity or a chipping of the enamel surface (ie rough because losing tooth structure). Some decay starts as microscopic pits that link up to each other as they grow , due to acids in the mouth leaching out the minerals of the enamel. Your dentist of hygienist can tell which type of roughness it is and whether you need a cleaning or a filling

A patient does not have the training or equipment needed to see early stages of decay. The best ansewer is to see your provider every 6mth or as needed. I always tell my patients if you can diagnose yourself things are really bad.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is a philosophy that takes advantage of the latest technology and techniques to help keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. The principles of preventive dentistry are to prevent tooth decay, detect and treat decay as early as possible, preserve the maximum amount of tooth structure, and restore your teeth comfortably with tooth-colored materials. These same principles of early detection and treatment to preserve supporting tissue also apply to gum disease to prevent tooth loss.

As a first step, we'll talk with you about your diet, home care routine, and health history to help you lower your risk for tooth decay. If you are at high risk, we may recommend special fluoride tooth paste, mouth rinses, sealants, or other treatments to help prevent decay. We'll also perform a thorough examination. And, if we suspect that the decay has already begun, we will use extremely small instruments to remove the decay in the pits and grooves or in-between areas of teeth where decay begins. Fortunately, these methods are gentle on teeth.

If teeth are at risk of decay, we may place sealants on the biting surfaces of teeth to prevent future damage. If teeth are already decayed, then we will remove the decay and bond in a small tooth-colored filling to protect and restore the tooth. At Adult Dentistry of Rochester, preventive dentistry techniques allow us to detect problems early and help you keep your healthy, beautiful smile. We invite you to visit http://www.dulski.com/ for a free comprehensive exam. We think this is the best way for you to get acquainted with our advanced, comfort-conscience,