What Happens If A Cavity Is Left Untreated?

Tooth decay is a common problem for patients of all ages. However, some may not believe that it is a serious issue, leading them to delay necessary care. When left unchecked, cavities can cause discomfort and even tooth loss.

Causes of Tooth Decay

• Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily using fluoride toothpaste.
• Skipped Dental Visits: When your dentist does not see you regularly, they may not be able to treat early-stage decay.
• Dietary Choices: Avoiding sugary, acidic, and sticky foods helps protect your tooth enamel. If you do choose to consume these foods, brush your teeth afterward.
• Misaligned Teeth: Crowded, crossed teeth harbor food particles and plaque bacteria that cause decay.
• Dry Mouth: Saliva naturally cleans your mouth. Some medications cause dry mouth, which can raise your chance of developing tooth decay. Snoring and sleep apnea can also be at fault.
• Lack of Fluoride Exposure: If you drink non-fluoridated water at home (well, spring, or bottled water), you may be more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Consequences of Untreated Tooth Decay

Discomfort

Untreated cavities can expose the dentin and, in some cases, the pulp chamber, causing varying degrees of discomfort and sensitivity.

Discoloration

Advanced tooth decay can cause unsightly brown or black tooth discoloration.

Bad Breath

Tooth decay allows the bacteria that cause bad breath to grow.

Need for Root Canal Therapy

If tooth decay reaches the pulp chamber and affects the nerves, you may experience severe sensitivity and discomfort. In this case, your dentist may be able to perform a root canal to save the natural tooth.

Tooth Loss

If your tooth sustains too much damage to replace, it may break, fall out, or need extraction to preserve your oral health.

Tooth Replacements

Bridges, dentures, and implants can replace missing teeth. However, due to insurance coverage limits, these appliances often have an upfront cost.

Detecting Tooth Decay

Dentists visually inspect teeth to check for early signs of tooth decay and use digital X-rays to find hidden issues. If you skip dental visits, your dentist may miss signs of decay until it becomes a significant problem.

Preventing Tooth Decay

Fortunately, tooth decay is a preventable disease. Improving your oral hygiene habits can protect your teeth against its damaging effects. Brush and floss as your dentist recommends, using ADA-approved toothpaste.

Keep all dental appointments. Seeing your dentist at least twice a year protects against many oral health issues. If you follow these recommendations, you can fight tooth decay and preserve your smile for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Decay

If my child's baby tooth has a cavity, does it need treatment?

Children with tooth decay should always receive treatment. Poor oral health in childhood can last a lifetime.

Can I receive tooth-colored fillings?

Composite fillings have become increasingly popular. They use a resin material carefully crafted to match your natural teeth. They strengthen teeth and last for years.

Lane Family Dentistry provides comprehensive oral health care for the entire family in Vilonia, AR. We believe that dental visits should be comfortable, relaxing, and pleasant. Please get in touch with Lane Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment today.