If you have a cavity, it’s time to visit your dentist in Castle Rock ASAP. We know life gets busy sometimes — but ignoring a cavity can lead to far more serious issues down the line, like pain, broken teeth, or even an infection that could spread throughout the body. Keep reading to find out more about the dangers of ignoring tooth decay, and how we can help you prevent it from occurring in the first place.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities, aka dental caries or tooth decay, are one of the most common diseases for people of all ages. Cavities occur when bacteria that are naturally present in the mouth mix with the sugars and acids in what you eat and drink. The result is a sticky biofilm that covers the surfaces of your teeth. When it is not removed thoroughly with routine brushing and flossing, the mixture will gradually draw calcium out and weaken spots of the tooth enamel to form a cavity.
While everyone can get cavities, some people are more prone than others. You are at a higher risk of tooth decay if you smoke or have a diet that is high in sugar. Additionally, medications causing dry mouth can greatly increase your risk of developing cavities.
How to Know If You Have a Cavity
It is easy to miss a cavity with the naked eye, especially in the beginning stages. A moderate cavity may be visible as a dark spot on the tooth, but it usually is not seen until it is very large. Most of us won’t notice evidence of tooth decay until the area starts to ache. The best way to benefit from early detection of cavities is to visit your dentist regularly. This is why we recommend patients of all ages come in for a checkup and cleaning every six months — when we see your smile frequently, it’s easier to catch small spots of decay before they become large problems.
Consequences of Untreated Cavities
If we detect a cavity during a visual exam or with X-rays, we will recommend you have it treated as soon as possible. Don’t put off this follow-up visit! A cavity won’t get better or even stay the same — instead, it will gradually worsen until it eventually puts you at risk of losing the tooth altogether. Once decay has reached the interior of the tooth, the part we call the pulp, an ache will develop. At this point, root canal therapy is the only hope of rescuing the tooth. Once root canal treatment is no longer an option, extraction is the only solution.
Don’t Wait to Visit Your Dentist for Tooth Decay
Please don’t wait to treat tooth decay! Your smile depends on prompt restorative care after a cavity has developed — and Dr. Kennington and our team are here to offer caring, effective restorative services. A tooth-colored filling can be used to restore the area without taking away from the appearance of your smile. You probably won’t be able to tell a difference at all! Plus, you’ll feel great knowing you are doing what’s right for your oral health.
About the Practice
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington and his team offer wonderful care for patients of all ages in and around Castle Rock. To learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment for expert general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry, contact the office at 360-274-9100.