Discovering a cavity may not seem like a major cause for concern, but the short-term and long-term effects of that cavity can be quite problematic. A cavity is the initial warning that a tooth is beginning to decay, and is a commonly treated dental issue. It begins with a small hole in the tooth that will gradually grow larger and deeper if left untreated. Cavities are not noticed immediately, and can take months to develop before being identified.
There are multiple reasons a cavity may develop in the tooth. While genetics can play a role, a lack of good dental hygiene is often a major contributor. When sugary foods mix with saliva in the mouth and regular brushing and flossing do not occur, teeth begin a gradual decay that may go unnoticed for a few months. Initially, a cavity may bring a slight pain and discomfort to the tooth when chewing food, or when a hot or cold substance touches the decayed area. As the cavity grows and deepens, it becomes easier for food particles to get lodged within the tooth. If not cleaned properly, these leftover food particles can lead to further decay, and possible infections and abscesses in the tooth. These infections and abscesses can cause bad breath and illness. If the decay continues, it will eventually reach the nerve ending of the tooth, causing excess oral pain. Once the decay has reached the nerve ending, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary to alleviate the pain and fix the issue. In very severe instances, an unaddressed cavity that occurs in the back teeth can cause an infection which can spread to the sinuses and into the brain.
To stay a step ahead of cavities, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. It is also wise to visit a dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. If the dentist finds a cavity, they can fill it before it has a chance to deepen. Visit Your Dental Office today for a check-up, contact us today to book an appointment.