Cavities are one of the most common dental issues in people of all ages, and yet many individuals don’t understand the potential consequences associated with leaving cavities untreated.
A cavity is a hole on the surface of your tooth that results from bacteria-causing decay, and it’s important to address this problem as quickly as possible.
In today’s blog post, we’re going to explain what can happen if you don’t take care of your cavities—from pain to infection and beyond.
Untreated Cavities Cause Problems
When cavities are left untreated, they can cause a range of dental issues.
Toothache
We’ve all experienced it before: the sharp, persistent pain in our teeth that can make even the simplest tasks feel agonizing.
Toothaches can be caused by a variety of issues, but one of the most common culprits is a cavity.
As the cavity grows and starts to damage the tooth’s nerve, the pain can become unbearable.
Many people try to tough out the pain, but there’s no need to suffer in silence. If you’re dealing with a toothache, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for help. They can diagnose the issue and provide effective treatment options to help you find relief.
Infection
An infection is a serious and concerning complication that can arise if a cavity is not treated properly.
It can begin in the tooth, but quickly spread to other areas of the mouth, including the gums.
If left untreated, it can lead to sepsis, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition.
Infections in the mouth should never be ignored or taken lightly, as they can have serious consequences.
It is always best to seek prompt medical attention to prevent any further complications or damage from occurring.
Tooth loss
Tooth loss can be a result of several factors, but one of the most common is untreated cavities.
What starts as a small cavity can quickly spread, causing damage to the surrounding teeth and gums. Before you know it, you may find yourself with a broken or missing tooth.
Not only can this be painful, but it can also have a significant impact on your self-esteem and overall dental health.
That’s why it’s crucial to address cavities as soon as they’re detected, rather than putting them off until they become a more significant problem.
With prompt treatment from a dental professional, you can help prevent tooth loss and ensure a healthy, happy smile for years to come.
Bad breath
Bad breath is an embarrassing problem that many people struggle with. While there are multiple factors that can contribute to halitosis, cavities are a particularly common culprit.
When cavities form and are not treated promptly, bacteria are able to thrive and multiply within them.
These bacteria then release unpleasant-smelling gasses that can cause bad breath.
It is important to consistently practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent cavities and mask any unwanted odors.
Other health problems
The connection between oral health and overall health is a fascinating and often overlooked topic.
According to research, those with untreated cavities may be at a higher risk for developing other serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
It seems that taking care of our teeth and gums is not only important for maintaining a bright smile but for our overall well-being.
With daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, we can help prevent not just cavities, but potentially life-threatening health issues as well.
Cavity Treatments in Raleigh, NC
If you have untreated cavities, don’t wait any longer to get them taken care of.
At Triangle Dentistry, we offer a variety of treatments to help restore your smile and improve your oral health.
From fillings and crowns to root canals and extractions, our experienced team is here to provide the individualized care you need to get back on the path toward better dental health.
If you think you may have a cavity or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
We’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your specific needs and help you find relief from cavity-related pain.
Don’t let cavities control the health of your smile – seek professional help as soon as possible and get back on track toward better dental wellness.