A cavity is a hole in a tooth caused by decay. Cavities can occur in people of all ages and can lead to various dental problems if left untreated.

The bacteria in plaque produce an acid that can wear away the enamel of your teeth, which can result in tooth decay. If you ignore a cavity, it will grow and can cause severe pain, discomfort, and even tooth loss.

Here is a visual guide to what happens when you ignore a cavity.

The Start of a Cavity

The beginning of a cavity may not seem like a big deal at first, but it can quickly grow into something more significant if not treated. Cavities begin as small holes in the enamel of the tooth and will not cause any pain or discomfort in most cases.

At this stage, regular brushing and flossing can help to prevent the cavity from growing. If you consume sugary foods and drinks or do not maintain proper oral hygiene, the cavity can continue to grow.

Deeper Decay

If you continue to ignore a cavity, it will begin to penetrate deeper into the layers of the tooth. At this point, symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, pain, and discomfort may begin to occur.

The cavity may also become visible to the naked eye, appearing as a dark spot on the surface of the tooth.

At this stage, a dental filling can usually fix the problem. However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe dental problems such as infection and abscess.

Infection and Abscess

If the cavity is left untreated even longer, it can lead to an infection and abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the root of the tooth when bacteria infects the tooth’s pulp and spreads to the surrounding tissues.

Signs of an abscess include throbbing pain, swelling, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. In severe cases, it can also cause fever and difficulty breathing.

Treatment for an abscess usually involves a root canal or tooth extraction, and antibiotics may be needed to control the infection.

Tooth Loss

If you still fail to treat the cavity, it can lead to the loss of the tooth entirely. A severe dental infection can cause bone loss, which will eventually result in the tooth becoming so loose that it has to be extracted.

Tooth loss can lead to problems like difficulty eating and speaking, and it can also impact your confidence as well.

Prevention is Key

If you want to avoid the consequences of ignoring a cavity, it’s essential to maintain proper oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

You should also avoid consuming sugary foods and drinks, which can promote bacteria growth in your mouth and lead to tooth decay.

Conclusion

A cavity may not seem like a big deal at first, but ignoring it can lead to severe dental problems. Early treatment is essential to prevent a cavity from growing and causing pain, discomfort, infection, and even tooth loss.

Remember to brush and floss regularly, limit your sugar intake, and visit your dentist for regular checkups.