Categories: Emergency Dentist

What Can Happen if Tooth Decay Goes Untreated

Some people may not realize how improper oral care can have a negative impact on their overall health. Untreated tooth decay does not heal without treatment and usually worsens over time. When those with multiple cavities ignore their dental needs, they may be putting themselves at risk for a variety of other medical problems, some of which can have long-term physical effects.

The causes of tooth decay

Most forms of dental decay are caused when individuals do not brush long enough or fail to reach certain parts of the mouth, such as the rear molars. Over time, food particles get caught in the teeth and cause plaque and tartar, a hard, scaly film, to form on the teeth. This encourages bacteria to form and eat away at the teeth. Once the bacteria reach the dentin of the tooth, it forms cavities. Not only do these cavities usually cause pain, but they can also trigger other problems in the body if they go untreated.

Infection

When cavities form and become large enough to catch and trap bacteria, an infection may set in. As bacteria builds up, it can enter the bloodstream via saliva and cause infections elsewhere in the body. This can result in several different issues, including:

  • Intermittent fevers
  • Fatigue
  • Possible organ damage

When cavities form, it can take some time for an infection to set in. However, once this occurs, it may take considerable time to reverse the tooth decay and heal the body, especially if multiple cavities are present.

Tooth abscess

A cavity can cause the dentin and roots inside a tooth to die, and when this happens, bacteria can cause an abscess around it. This is usually quite painful and can result in discomfort while chewing or speaking, as well as swelling in the gums near the tooth, which usually causes sensitivity and even bleeding. Because of the risk of serious infection, a tooth abscess will likely need attention from a dentist before it grows worse.

Tooth loss

When a cavity goes untreated, tooth decay will likely continue until the damage becomes untreatable and a dentist must remove an affected tooth. Decaying teeth may also loosen and fall out or break on their own, a problem that can affect the surrounding teeth, causing them to shift. The longer a cavity is allowed to grow, the greater the risk of tooth loss.

Gum pain and swelling

Cavities can affect the entire mouth, including the gums. Infected teeth and increased bacteria may trigger gingivitis, or swelling of the gums. When this occurs, the gums become irritated and may bleed when affected individuals brush their teeth. If the cavity goes untreated, this swelling may become worse and eventually lead to loose teeth.

Conclusion

Untreated tooth decay can cause serious health issues in people of all ages. Brushing and flossing daily, as well as visiting a dentist for cleanings and regular exams, can prevent this problem and keep a smile beautiful and healthy for years to come.

Request an appointment here: https://impladentdentistry.com or call Impladent Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry at (714) 677-9452 for an appointment in our Anaheim office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Related Posts

What's Involved In The Dental Bonding Procedure?

Dental bonding is a common dental procedure that repairs damaged teeth (chips, cracks, etc.), fills in gaps between teeth and lengthens teeth that are worn down or naturally too short. Understanding the process that dentists use with dental bonding should help you decide if treatment is right for you. Although each dentist will have their own…

What Causes Dental Anxiety?

Want to understand how dental anxiety can get in the way of someone’s ability to get the dental treatment they need for good oral health? Those currently living with any level of anxiety need to take action to address their anxiety to be sure they can get all the dental treatments they need for good…

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

Patients who are scheduled for a root canal may wonder whether such a procedure is necessary. A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement, such as a dental implant or denture. So, while you might not choose to get a root canal for fun, it is a useful…

Transforming Your Smile: Steps To A Successful Smile Makeover

A successful smile makeover can transform how you look and address lingering issues that you may be self-conscious about. Whether you do not like the shade of your teeth or think that the gaps between your teeth are too large, cosmetic dentistry can offer smile makeover services tailored to your goals.Since smile makeovers are unique…

Impladent Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry

Share
Published by
Impladent Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry

Recent Posts

What’s Involved in the Dental Bonding Procedure?

Understanding the process that dentists use with dental bonding should help you decide if treatment…

4 weeks ago

What Causes Dental Anxiety?

Very few know what dental anxiety means, and some do not know that it exists.

4 weeks ago

Transforming Your Smile: Steps to a Successful Smile Makeover

A smile makeover can aesthetically breathe new life into your smile and help you feel…

2 months ago

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement,…

2 months ago

Quick Guide to Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure that few look forward to; however, it is often…

3 months ago

Hard Reline Versus Soft Reline for Dentures

Hard and soft denture relines are similar. In both cases, the dentist removes some of…

3 months ago