What Are the Risks of Not Treating a Cavity?
August 26, 2024 9:00 amA cavity might seem like a small issue, but ignoring it can lead to significant dental problems. Cavities, if left untreated, don’t just stay the same—they worsen over time, potentially leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Understanding the risks of not treating a cavity can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
Worsening Discomfort: A cavity is a sign of tooth decay. As it progresses, it can reach deeper into the tooth, affecting the nerves. This can lead to increased pain and sensitivity, especially when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods. What starts as a minor annoyance can turn into constant discomfort if not addressed promptly.
Bacteria Buildup: When a cavity is left untreated, the decay continues to spread. What starts as a small filling becomes a large filling, and sometimes even a crown. Eventually, it can reach the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are located. This can cause an infection or abscess, which is not only painful but can also spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious health issues. At this point, a root canal is often needed.
Severe Decay: If the decay is allowed to progress without intervention, it can destroy a significant portion of the tooth structure. At this stage, saving the tooth becomes much more difficult, often requiring extraction. Losing a tooth can affect your ability to chew, speak, and can lead to shifting of surrounding teeth.
Increased Costs: The longer a cavity goes untreated, the more complex and costly the treatment becomes. What could have been fixed with a simple filling might later require a root canal, crown, or even tooth replacement. Early treatment is not only better for your health but also more economical.
Systemic Effects: Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. An untreated cavity can lead to infections that may spread beyond your mouth. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections have been linked to poor oral health. Taking care of cavities promptly helps protect your overall well-being.
Increased Pain and Sensitivity
Risk of Infection
Tooth Loss
Expensive and Complex Treatments
Impact on Overall Health
Protecting Your Smile at Hermitage Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Hermitage, TN
Treating cavities as soon as they’re detected is essential to maintaining your oral health. At Hermitage Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Hermitage, TN, Dr. Aileen Kruger, Dr. Friedmann, and our team are dedicated to helping you prevent and treat cavities before they lead to more serious problems. Regular check-ups allow us to catch cavities early and provide the care you need to keep your smile healthy.
If you suspect you have a cavity or it’s been a while since your last dental visit, contact us at Hermitage Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Let us help you protect your teeth and maintain a strong, healthy smile!
Categorised in: Restorative Dental Care