Cavities are holes in the enamel of a tooth. A cavity that is detected early and treated in a timely manner does not pose much of a risk to your long-term health. However, if cavities go untreated for an extended amount of time, then it can lead to worsening concerns, including severe discomfort and potential tooth loss.
A cavity that is left untreated can become more severe, which can lead to an increase in discomfort and the need for more extensive treatment to save the tooth. If the tooth is left untreated for too long, then tooth extraction may be necessary. On the other hand, treating a dental cavity in the early stages is typically non-invasive and more affordable.
A minor cavity is not a major cause for concern and can effortlessly be treated with a minimally invasive dental filling procedure. However, since it is easy for bacteria and food particles to get lodged in a cavity, they typically worsen quickly if they are not treated right away. As cavities get deeper and wider, the experience can be more complicated and painful.
As mentioned, cavities that go untreated typically become larger, which exposes the nerves and blood vessels more and leads to more painful symptoms and increased tooth sensitivity. The discomfort from a more severe dental cavity can make it more challenging to function each day until the concern is properly treated.
Anytime bacteria has the ability to accumulate, an infection is possible. If a cavity is left untreated and the decay extends toward the root of a tooth, the risk of infection is much higher. If a tooth infection develops, then it could put the tooth in jeopardy, leading to severe pain and swelling, and possibly spreading to other parts of the mouth and body.
The most common way in which deep tooth decay is treated is root canal therapy. This is specifically necessary if the decay extends toward the tooth’s root. A root canal procedure is more invasive, requiring the removal of decayed portions of the tooth root and filling the tooth with a material called gutta-percha. A crown is typically required afterward to restore the size, shape, and appearance of the tooth.
The ultimate result for many who do not seek treatment for a cavity is the loss of a tooth, which results from a weakened root of the tooth (in which case the tooth falls out on its own or requires extraction). This leads to the need for a replacement tooth.
The following are answers to three of the most frequently asked questions that patients have about cavity treatment are in regard to root canal therapy, cavity fillings, and preventive care long-term.
A root canal may be necessary for cavity treatment when the cavity is too large to fill with a composite or amalgam filling. In this case, the decay of the tooth is usually deep and extends toward the tooth’s root; root canal therapy helps remove and clean the decayed portion of the tooth and then fills and seals the tooth.
The length of time a cavity filling lasts varies depending on the location of the tooth and the type of dental filling material. In general, cavity fillings last between five and 15 years. The more durable options such as metal alloy or gold last much longer than tooth-colored dental filling restorations, although they do not offer the same aesthetic benefit.
After treating dental cavities, the long-term focus shifts to the prevention of cavities. This can be accomplished by good oral hygiene that should include brushing and flossing regularly. Mouthwash can also help kill bacteria inside the mouth that leads to dental cavities. Dentists may also recommend preventive treatments such as dental sealants, which protect the most vulnerable areas (chewing surfaces) of teeth.
Give our dental team a call today if you have a cavity or are experiencing discomforting symptoms with one or more of your teeth. We can determine the cause and severity of your concern and put together a treatment plan to help you achieve optimal oral health.
Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Alexandria, VA.
To manage the pain you will feel after a root canal treatment and to prevent infection, it is critical to follow proper aftercare. The treatment is standard, so it should not be a surprise to your dentist. Once you go home, you will need to follow some aftercare tips to keep your mouth healthy. Here…
Root canal treatment is used to address infection or inflammation of the nerves and blood vessels in a tooth’s pulp chamber. The contents of the pulp chamber can become inflamed or infected for various reasons like trauma to a tooth, an untreated crack, or severe deep decay. Root canal treatment often allows patients to save…
Root canal treatment can help with gums and the underlying jawbone. Read on to learn more about this endodontic treatment. This article discusses root canal treatment and how it can improve the health of the tooth receiving the treatment as well as the gums that support it. Gum and tooth health often go together. If…
Most people find root canal treatment frightening. This procedure has a bad reputation for being painful and unpleasant. But your dentist has the skills and instruments necessary to handle the process efficiently and with minimal pain. There is a possibility that a patient may have numerous teeth that require extensive treatment. The dentist can assess…
You can get specific procedures from your family dentist. This dental care provider knows your…
CPAP machines are the most popular form of sleep apnea treatment. However, there are effective…
Your family dentist can help you regain your dental health. Dental damage or tooth loss…
A family dentist is unique in that they treat all age groups. This ensures that…
Your orthodontist can help straighten your teeth with the right treatment.
Preventive dental care from your family dentist is a priority. After all, preventing infections and…
