Maybe you have had some recent tooth pain but ignored it, hoping it would go away. Or perhaps you noticed some discoloration on your tooth but thought it was a food stain. Whatever the situation, ignoring or not recognizing the symptoms of a dental cavity and not seeking treatment can lead to severe pain, infection, and the need for additional dental procedures.
Signs of Dental Cavities
Symptoms of a dental cavity can vary, based on the person and the location and size of the cavity. Signs and symptoms that you might have a cavity include the following:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Dark spot or hole on the tooth
- Stain on the surface of the tooth
- Toothaches
- Bad breath
- Pus around the gums or tooth
- Pain while chewing or biting
- Swollen gums
Keep in mind that if your cavity is new or small, you may not experience symptoms yet. Also, everyone experiences cavities differently, so you may have all, none, or a few of these symptoms if you develop one.
What Happens if a Cavity Goes Untreated?
Several things can happen if a cavity is left untreated:
A Small Cavity Can Get Worse
Unfortunately, cavities don't go away on their own. If they aren't treated in a timely manner, they can spread to the entire surface of the tooth and also to nearby teeth. If they aren't treated, they often get wider and deeper, making the teeth brittle potentially causing them to crack or break which would then require more than a simple filling.
Nerve Damage
If the tooth decay progresses enough, it will reach the tooth nerves, exposing them to air. Since the nerve health is compromised, this can be extremely painful. Once a cavity reaches this state, depending on how severe it is, the dentist will likely either perform a root canal or remove the tooth.
The Occurrence of Infections
The more time a cavity is left untreated, the higher the risk of infection. Decay that is left to sit and fester becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria to grow in the mouth. Infection causes increased pain, swelling, and other more serious problems that can have an effect on your overall health beyond your oral cavity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cavities
What Causes Tooth Cavities?
A build-up of plaque (a combination of bacteria, acid, food particles, and saliva) causes tooth cavities. Plaque build-up is caused by the following:
- Inadequate Oral Hygiene: Failure to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to accumulate on teeth.
- Dry Mouth: Decreased saliva production creates an environment prime for plaque formation. Saliva plays an important role in neutralizing acids and rinsing away food particles, therefore, a dry mouth can contribute to the dangerous build-up of plaque.
- Poor Eating and Drinking Habits: Consuming sugary and acidic foods and beverages can aid in plaque formation. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars, producing acids that erode the protective tooth enamel.
- Lack of Fluoride: Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acids. A deficiency in fluoride, whether due to the absence of fluoride in water sources or inadequate use of fluoride-containing oral care products, can make teeth more susceptible to cavities. Regular exposure to fluoride is essential for maintaining optimal oral health.
How Can I Reduce the Risk of Cavities?
Proper dental care at home can be very effective at preventing dental cavities. You can help reduce your risk by taking the following actions:
- Brush at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Use a mouthwash containing fluoride
- Eat healthy foods that are low in sugar and carbohydrates
- Have regular dental checkups and professional cleanings
Cavity Treatment in Westbury
If you are experiencing symptoms of a cavity, seek care from a Westbury dentist as soon as possible. At JM Dental of Westbury, we are here for all of your dental needs. Contact our office today at 516-334-3444 or go online to schedule an appointment.