Consequences of an Untreated Cavity

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Consequences of an Untreated Cavity


Having an untreated cavity can have some rather severe consequences. Cavities are the holes that are created by the acids in the mouth. Some of these acids come from the foods and beverages people consume, while others are produced by the bacteria that live in the mouth. These bacteria dine on food particles, and they excrete acids when they are done.

When teeth are exposed to these acids for extended periods of time due to poor oral hygiene or from a diet that contains too many acids, the enamel becomes damaged, and the decay begins to spread to other areas. That is one of the reasons why a person should never have an untreated cavity since it morphs into a more serious dental issue over time.

Cavities should be treated as soon as they are detected. This improves the patient's overall health, and it significantly lowers their dental bills.

What to expect when living with an untreated cavity

1. Tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is one of the first symptoms of tooth decay. It occurs since damage to teeth enamel leaves the tubules in the more sensitive dentin exposed to the temperatures and the acids in the foods and beverages being consumed. This is the body's way of warning the patient that there is something wrong with the tooth.

2. Toothaches

Toothaches are another symptom of tooth decay. This is also caused by the inner layers of a tooth being exposed to the irritants in the mouth when the teeth enamel becomes compromised. People who continuously experience toothaches, especially when biting down, should seek a dentist as soon as possible.

3. Inflammation around the tooth

When tooth decay makes its way into the pulp chamber, the bacteria in the mouth begin to migrate into the pulp chamber. The area around the tooth becomes inflamed as the body tries to fight the bacteria. The bacteria will eventually infect the tooth if treatment is not administered immediately.

If bacteria can reach your tooth’s pulp, it may become abscessed. This can result in swelling. This is your body telling you that it is time to see a dentist before it is too late. The swelling is related to the inflammation in that area of your mouth.

4. A root canal or extraction becomes necessary to save the tooth

Once bacteria makes its way into the pulp chamber, an infection is virtually guaranteed to follow. This infection can spread into the jawbone and eventually the bloodstream when it is not treated promptly.

A root canal treatment is performed if the infection has not yet made its way to the tooth's roots, while extractions are reserved for cases where the infection threatens to spread to other areas.

We are ready to help with your untreated cavity! Contact us today. 

Treating a cavity in its early stages is the best way to avoid the consequences of an untreated cavity. Noticed any of the symptoms of cavities lately? Schedule an appointment with one of our dentists today.

Call (408) 842-2818 today to reach Gilroy Dental Associates.

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