A dental cavity is not only painful, but it can also cause infection and tooth loss. To prevent this, you should have regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene habits. Cavities can appear without any symptoms and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Early diagnosis is the key to avoiding this condition and ensuring that you get the best treatment possible.
There are several factors that lead to the development of a dental cavity. Bacteria that live on the teeth produce acid that wears away the outer layer of the tooth. This causes the tooth to become sensitive to hot and cold materials, causing pain and sensitivity. Eventually, bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, including the jaw bone and the muscles of the head and neck. In severe cases, the bacteria can reach the heart and cause an infection.
Once the cavity is large enough to damage the tooth’s structure, it can lead to more severe problems. The most common of these is a sensitivity in the tooth’s enamel, which can affect your ability to chew and speak properly. If left untreated, the cavity can grow larger and potentially reach the tooth’s pulp. This may result in an infection and a pocket of pus in the bone at the root end of the tooth. In such a case, you may need to have a root canal or even have your tooth extracted.
Thankfully, early detection of dental cavities is key to preserving your oral health and avoiding more costly and painful procedures. Regular dental examinations are also important for overall mouth health. Getting a cleaning every six months or so will prevent cavities and other oral health issues before they become too severe. The UIC College of Dentistry uses a proven evidence-based approach called Caries Management by Risk Assessment, which allows dentists to tailor treatment for each patient.
Dental cavities can be a nuisance and can disrupt a person’s life. For example, an intense toothache can hinder a person’s learning potential and productivity. Furthermore, untreated dental cavities may cause tooth abscesses. These are pus-filled pockets caused by a bacterial infection in the tooth. A cavity can also lead to a painful infection of the gums surrounding the tooth, which may lead to the development of a dental sepsis.
A dental cavity develops when the surface of a tooth becomes weak and a hole forms. The hole created by the cavity must be filled with a dental filling. This process will eliminate bacteria and restore the tooth. There are many types of dental cavities. A dental filling is a great solution for many cases of dental decay.
A dental cavity is an unpleasant experience, but it does not have to be permanent. You can prevent it with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. A dentist will help you choose the best treatment options.
