Dental hygiene is a crucial aspect of overall well-being that is often overlooked, despite the risks associated with poor oral health. In fact, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), only about 56.8% of adults in the United States brush their teeth twice a day. In addition to brushing and flossing twice daily, many adults underestimate the risks associated with leaving a cavity untreated.

Risks Associated With Poor Oral Health: Ignoring Cavities

To comprehend the risks of leaving a cavity untreated, it is essential to understand what cavities are and how they develop. Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are holes or structural damage in the teeth caused by a combination of bacteria, acids, and plaque. They typically occur when the protective enamel on the tooth’s surface is eroded due to poor oral hygiene practices or a diet high in sugars and carbohydrates.

Risks of Untreated Cavities

1. Pain and Discomfort: Initially, a cavity may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, the decay reaches the dentin, the inner layer of the tooth. At this stage, individuals may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. As the cavity deepens, the nerve endings within the tooth become exposed, leading to intense pain and discomfort.
2. Infection and Abscesses: If left untreated, a cavity can progress to the pulp, which contains blood vessels and nerves. This can result in an infection, leading to an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the root of the tooth, causing severe pain, swelling, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Infections can spread to the surrounding tissues and even enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks.
3. Tooth Loss: Untreated cavities can eventually cause irreparable damage to the tooth structure, leading to tooth loss. As the decay progresses, the tooth becomes weakened and may break or fracture. Tooth loss not only affects one’s appearance and self-confidence but also impairs proper chewing and speaking, and may necessitate more invasive and costly dental treatments like dental implants or bridges.
4. Spread of Infection: Neglected cavities can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, which can easily spread to neighboring teeth, leading to the development of new cavities. Overall oral health can deteriorate rapidly, requiring extensive dental interventions to restore the mouth’s health and functionality.
5. Systemic Health Concerns: Recent studies have shown a potential link between oral health and overall systemic health. Untreated cavities and gum disease have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Maintaining good oral health can help reduce the risk of these systemic health issues.

Schedule A Cleaning

Professional dental cleaning is a vital component of maintaining your oral health. Even if the dental checkup reveals that you have other problems, teeth cleaning will be the first step to restoring your oral health.

Call (310) 910-9950 today or schedule your appointment online.