Consequences of Ignoring Cavities: What You Need to Know

Untreated cavities?

Hello, doctor.
I had a cavity for a year without treatment, but recently it started to hurt, so I went to see a doctor.
The doctor said it was close to the nerve but hadn't reached it yet, so they filled it.
However, I didn't tell the doctor that I had the cavity for a long time.
Will there be any long-term effects?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/17

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Anonymous,
Hello! If cavities are not treated, they can lead to severe pain, requiring root canal therapy, and you will also need to spend money on a crown.
If the decay progresses to the root, you may need to have the tooth extracted, which could result in the need for three dental implants.
Please communicate more with your dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety and health!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2018/11/17

More Info

Ignoring cavities can lead to a range of serious dental and health issues, and it’s good that you are seeking information on this topic. Cavities, or dental caries, are areas of decay on the teeth caused by the action of bacteria that produce acids from sugars in the food we consume. If left untreated, cavities can progress through the layers of the tooth, leading to more severe problems.

When you ignore a cavity for an extended period, several consequences can arise:
1. Progression of Decay: Initially, cavities may not cause any pain or discomfort, but they can gradually worsen. As you experienced, the decay can reach deeper layers of the tooth, potentially approaching the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If the cavity reaches the pulp, it can lead to pulpitis, an inflammation of the pulp that can be extremely painful and may require a root canal treatment.

2. Infection: If the decay progresses to the pulp, it can lead to an infection. This infection can cause an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms at the root of the tooth. An abscess can lead to severe pain, swelling, and even systemic infections if the bacteria enter the bloodstream.

3. Tooth Loss: Advanced decay can compromise the structural integrity of the tooth, leading to fractures or complete loss of the tooth. Tooth loss can affect your ability to chew properly and can lead to further dental issues, including shifting of adjacent teeth.

4. Impact on Surrounding Teeth: Cavities can also affect neighboring teeth. The decay can spread, leading to additional cavities and requiring more extensive dental work.

5. Systemic Health Issues: There is growing evidence linking oral health to overall health. Chronic dental infections can contribute to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. The bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

6. Increased Treatment Costs: The longer you wait to address a cavity, the more extensive and expensive the treatment may become. What could have been a simple filling can escalate to a root canal or even extraction, leading to higher costs and more complex procedures.

7. Pain and Discomfort: As you noted, pain can be a significant consequence of untreated cavities. The discomfort can affect your daily life, including your ability to eat, speak, and concentrate.

Given that you mentioned your cavity had been present for a year, it’s crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups to monitor your oral health. Even if the cavity was treated, it’s essential to follow up with your dentist to ensure that no further damage has occurred and to discuss preventive measures to avoid future cavities.

In summary, ignoring cavities can lead to severe dental and health complications. It’s essential to address dental issues promptly and maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. If you have concerns about your dental health or the treatment you received, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your dentist. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you maintain a healthy smile.

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