We take brushing and flossing pretty seriously around here. After all, a good smile is a healthy smile! But what if our hard-earned dental hygiene isn’t enough? What if we have an underlying dental issue?
We may not realize there is a problem until we experience pain. That’s when we may seek out dental care. But if a cavity hurts is it too late? We’re here to answer that question!
Keep reading to learn exactly how we can help you, should the pain be caused by cavities and other dental issues.
If a Cavity Hurts Is It Too Late?
No, it is not too late if a cavity hurts. A cavity is a sign of tooth decay indicating that minerals around the area have been weakened and the cavity has formed. In most cases, if the cavity is causing pain it is likely due to an infection in the area and needs to be addressed.
Even if it is painful, with proper treatment it can be restored and the chances of complications later can be reduced. The earlier treatment is sought, the better the outcome can be.
Therefore, even if the cavity is causing pain, it is not necessary to wait and it is always best to seek immediate treatment. With proper care, the prognosis is usually positive and the cavity can be addressed and avoid further cavity pain.
Understanding Cavities
It is important to understand cavities in order to maintain good oral health. Cavities occur when there is an accumulation of bacteria in the mouth that produce acid and erode the enamel of the tooth. When a cavity begins to form, it may go unnoticed at first, but once it is large enough.
It will start to cause pain or discomfort. This is when it is important to seek treatment as cavities can worsen if left untreated, leading to costly restorative treatments such as fillings, inlays, or a complete crown or root canal.
To prevent cavities, it is essential to practice good daily oral hygiene habits like brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Routine visits to the dentist are beneficial to maintain oral health and detecting cavities before treatment is necessary.
Treatment Options for Cavities
Treating cavities is an important part of maintaining overall oral health. Some of the most popular treatment options for cavities include fillings, crowns, and inlays/onlays. For more serious cases, a tooth implant may be an option.
It is a surgical procedure that involves placing a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the gum and jawbone right beneath the gumline. This post acts as an anchor for the new artificial tooth, which is custom-made to match the patient’s natural teeth.
The procedure is considered more invasive than the more traditional methods, but it does provide a more permanent solution and looks just like a natural tooth. This treatment also has a longer lifespan than other options, making it a great alternative for those with severe cases of cavities.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene and Keep Away Cavities
Cavities can cause immense pain and discomfort but that doesn’t necessarily mean if a cavity hurts is it too late. Regular trips to the dentist for cleanings and checkups are an important part of preventing and treating cavities. Early recognition and treatment can prevent further damage and save you from unnecessary pain and expense.
If you think you have a cavity, make an appointment with your dentist today!
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