Cavities can be uncomfortable, and if they’re left untreated or unfilled, cavities can also cause your teeth to deteriorate. Cavities that are allowed to progress may lead to an infection in your tooth. Dental infections are very painful and can spread, so get treatment as soon as possible.
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is an area of decay in your tooth. Cavities happen when bacteria in the plaque y7on your tooth enamel feed on the sugars in your food. This produces acids that can wear down your teeth.
Cavities often happen as a result of poor brushing and flossing habits. If you have a high-sugar diet, you may be at particular risk of cavities. (This is why many people get cavities in childhood.)
If you get a cavity, early detection is key. Cavities are easy to fill if you catch them before they become serious. Seeing the dentist every six months can make this possible, so you can avoid complex dental work.
Causes of Cavities
There are many causes of cavities:
- Poor oral hygiene: If you don’t brush your teeth well or if you don’t brush frequently enough, this allows plaque to build up, which can lead to cavities.
- Consumption of sugary and starchy foods: If you have a high-sugar, high-starch diet, this feeds the harmful bacteria that produce tooth-decaying acids.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps wash away the food that you eat. If you aren’t producing enough saliva, this can lead to higher instances of cavities.
- Medications: Some medications can increase your risk of cavities.
- Genetics: Naturally weak enamel wears down quickly and decays easily, which can lead to cavities.
Symptoms of an Untreated Cavity
Some people aren’t aware when they have cavities. You may not notice any symptoms if you have a cavity, or you may experience the symptoms below.
- Toothache: Cavities can lead to a persistent toothache or dull ache disrupting daily activities.
- Sensitivity: If one or two teeth have suddenly become sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, this may be a sign of a cavity.
- Halitosis: Cavities cause bad breath that brushing alone can’t fix.
If you have a cavity, you may also notice swelling or redness around the gums. These are signs of infection around the affected tooth.
Health Consequences of Neglecting a Cavity
Cavities are easy to treat – until they spread. Here are some of the health consequences of ignoring cavities and delaying treatment:
- Advanced tooth decay: Decay can spread into nerves and blood vessels.
- Infection risk: When there is an infection, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, spreading infection throughout your body. This is a problem that can have serious health consequences.
- Tooth loss: Severe decay can destroy the tooth structure and may result in the natural loss of your permanent tooth or a tooth extraction.
- Chronic pain: Cavities that are untreated may cause chronic pain and ongoing discomfort that impacts eating and nutrition.
- Social impact: Some people feel anxiety or embarrassment about their appearance and smile when a cavity is visible.
There are also many financial consequences of delaying cavity treatment. Minor fillings are inexpensive compared to root canals, crowns, or extractions. Dental infections can lead to costly emergency care and may cause other medical conditions that also result in high healthcare bills.
Overall, preventative care and early intervention are always more cost-effective.
How to Prevent Cavities
Preventing cavities is easier than treating them. See your dentist every six months, and brush your teeth twice daily. Floss once per day. Replace your toothbrush every three months, and follow your dentist’s instructions for brushing and flossing to ensure you’re doing it correctly.
Limit your consumption of sugary snacks and drinks. If you’re a parent, encourage your child to follow a low-sugar diet and avoid keeping candy in the house. Consider dental sealants as well: this protective coating can be applied to molars to protect them from the bacteria that cause cavities.
Finally, stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day, and if you have dry mouth, talk to your doctor about ways to combat it.
Seek Cavity Treatment at Weninger Dentistry
Cavities that are left untreated can harm your health, finances, and confidence. Seeking early dental care in Tampa, Florida, can save you pain and money.
At Weninger Dentistry, we offer cavity treatment in Tampa, Florida. We can also help you adopt daily oral care habits and provide preventive treatments to protect your smile for years to come. Contact us to make your next appointment.