All Smiles Family Dentistry - Dentures, Extractions, Dental Implants, Quick Dentures
#The Importance of Treating Cavities
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues that can affect people of all ages. **Cavities** form when bacteria in the mouth create acids that erode and break down the enamel of the tooth. If left untreated, cavities can become progressively worse, leading to infection, pain, and even tooth loss. That's why it's so important to get cavities treated promptly by a professional dentist.
##What Causes Cavities?
**Cavities** are caused by acids attacking the enamel of teeth. These acids are formed when bacteria in the mouth break down carbohydrates from food and drink. Common culprits include sugary foods, starches like bread and pasta, and acidic drinks like soda and fruit juice. The acids weaken enamel, which then allows bacteria to work their way deeper into the tooth, creating a hole known as a cavity.
##Cavity Symptoms to Look Out For
Some early signs that you may have a cavity include:
- Tooth sensitivity - You may notice pain or discomfort when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet. This happens as cavities get closer to the inner pulp of the tooth.
- Tooth pain - More advanced cavities can cause throbbing pain without any stimulation. This indicates infection and inflammation in the tooth pulp.
- Discoloration - Cavities can appear as white, brown, or black spots on the enamel.
- Holes or pits - Small holes and pits in the tooth enamel are clear indicators of tooth decay.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it's important to get checked by a dentist right away before the cavity worsens.
##The Dangers of Leaving Cavities Untreated
While they may start small, cavities can rapidly escalate into a much larger problem if not treated quickly. Potential complications of leaving cavities untreated include:
- Tooth infections - Bacteria can populate a cavity and its decayed inner layers, leading to abscesses, pus, swollen gums, and other symptoms of infection. This requires antibiotics and draining.
- Tooth loss - As the decay spreads, it can severely undermine the structure of the tooth. This can ultimately lead to tooth fractures and complete tooth loss in some cases.
- Pain - Infection, inflammation, and expanding decay can activate the tooth's inner nerve endings, leading to moderate to severe toothaches.
- Systemic issues - Untreated infections in the mouth can occasionally spread to other parts of the body, risking sepsis and other dangerous conditions.
Clearly, cavities should never be ignored and allowed to get worse. Any symptoms of tooth decay require professional attention.
##Professional Cavity Treatment Options
Today's modern dentistry offers several effective options for treating **cavities**:
- Fillings - This traditional technique involves drilling out the decayed material and replacing it with metal, porcelain, resin, or composite fillings to fill in the hole and restore the tooth.
- Crowns - When there is extensive decay, a dental crown may be placed over the remaining tooth to reinforce its structure after decay removal.
- Root canals - If the pulp is infected, a root canal will be needed to clear out the infected pulp and nerves, then seal the inner tooth. A crown completes the restoration.
- Tooth extractions - In severe cases of untreated tooth decay, a tooth may be damaged beyond repair and need extraction.
The good news is that as long as **cavities** are caught early, they can be treated simply and effectively. Keep up with your routine dental visits and checkups to maintain your oral health and stop **cavities** in their tracks. Don't ignore the warning signs - get dental attention right away if you notice any symptoms of possible **cavities** or tooth decay. With prompt treatment, your teeth can be restored and protected from further damage.
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