What Happens If I Leave a Cavity Untreated?
Finding out you have a cavity can be surprising, especially if you take good care of your teeth. It’s nearly impossible to detect a cavity without visiting your dentist since they develop below the surface of your teeth. So what would happen if you left a cavity untreated?
What Are Cavities?
Cavities, in short, are decay. When you don’t brush your teeth properly, bacteria on the surface of your teeth start to penetrate below the surface. If you eat a diet that’s heavy in sugar and carbohydrates, the bacteria on the surface of your teeth will consume the sugars and carbs and release acid that is harmful to your enamel. Cavities begin to form when that acid wears down the enamel just below the surface of your teeth.
How Do Dentists Treat Cavities?
The primary way to treat cavities is with fillings:
- During a filling procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic so you won’t feel the procedure.
- They will then clear the decay from your teeth and fill the gap with a material to prevent future decay.
- This material can be anything from metals like gold, zinc, and silver to natural-looking resin and porcelain that isn’t noticeable when you talk or smile.
What Happens If I Leave a Cavity Untreated?
A few things can happen if you happen to skip out on your regular dental appointments and allow a cavity to go untreated:
- Tooth Sensitivity to Temperature
Your teeth’s ability to handle hot and cold temperatures will significantly decrease if you have decay, making it harder to enjoy certain foods and drinks.
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- Throbbing Tooth Pain
Cavities can cause throbbing and intense tooth pain, making the acts of talking or chewing much more difficult.
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- Total Tooth Decay
As bacteria from cavities spread down to the roots of your teeth, you may require a root canal to salvage your tooth before it is completely lost to decay.
How Do I Prevent Cavities?
Don’t take the chance of letting a cavity go untreated! There is no need to put yourself through unnecessary pain. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day every day, eat a healthy and well-balanced diet, and visit your dentist twice a year to monitor your oral health and keep track of any cavities that may be developing. Preventing your teeth from enduring further damage will save you time and money in the long run!
