What Happens if You Leave a Cavity Untreated?

Dealing with a small cavity might not seem like a big deal. You may think that if you keep up with your oral care routine, it won’t escalate into something worse. However, that is not the case. Though regularly brushing and flossing is good for your oral health, that alone won’t reverse a cavity. Sandcreek Dental is here to help. Keep reading this blog to see what happens when cavities are left untreated and what you can do to prevent them. 

How Does a Cavity Form? 

A cavity forms when bacteria and plaque build up on the teeth. As sugars and acids sit on the teeth, they begin to eat away at the enamel, which acts as a protective barrier against bacteria.

Process of Worsening Cavity 

Though your cavity may seem small and minute, here is how it can progressively get worse without proper treatment:

Weakened Enamel

As the plaque has built up, the enamel covering the tooth starts to decay. This makes your tooth weaker and more susceptible to further damage. If the cavity is treated in this stage, it will likely prevent the cavity from getting worse. 

Dentin Decay

If the cavity is left untreated and continues to grow, it can reach the dentin, which is the underlying layer of the tooth. This part of the tooth is softer than the enamel, which means it can be damaged much faster. 

Pulp Infection

The pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth, which contains the nerves and blood vessels. If the cavity reaches this part of the tooth, it can cause extreme pain and sensitivity. At this point, a root canal procedure may be done to prevent further infection. 

Abscess/Tooth Loss

If the cavity reaches a point of infection, it can create an abscess of pus. This may lead to tooth loss or removal to keep the infection from spreading. 

Other Issues 

As you can see, leaving a cavity untreated can cause serious complications. It can also lead to gingivitis, or gum disease, and cause problems with your oral health. Untreated cavities can also lead to infections that spread throughout different parts of the body, such as the heart or brain. 

Preventative Measures 

The good news is that there are simple ways to treat a cavity, especially in the early stages. In rare cases, a cavity that hasn’t fully formed can be reversed with fluoride treatment. Most cavities make it to the enamel stage, but here are some ways they can be treated and prevent further damage. 

• Visit the Dentist: If you have a cavity, visit the dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the stage it is at and give you a filling to restore the strength and protection. Ensure you go to the dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups so that you don’t give cavities enough time to continue growing. 
• Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing and flossing regularly doesn’t allow time for bacteria to sit on the teeth. Consider using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the enamel and flossing every day to get rid of stubborn bacteria in between the teeth. 
• Limit Sugary or Acidic Food and Drinks: Be aware of the kind of food and drinks being put in your mouth. Eating starchy foods or drinking lots of sugar allows more of a chance for bacteria to eat away at the enamel. 

Don’t Let Cavities Take Control of Your Oral Health

In simple terms, a lot of damage can be done if a cavity is left untreated. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Take control of your oral health today but following these prevention steps and visiting Sandcreek Dental today!