What if
Tooth Decay
is left untreated?
Preventive measures such as good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental check-ups are key to managing and preventing tooth decay.
If left untreated, tooth decay will grow larger and cause issues such as:
Tooth Loss
Tooth decay may sometimes cause severe damage to the tooth or surrounding gum and bone which may be irrepairable. In these cases, removal of the tooth is required to prevent ongoing spread of infection and relief of pain.
Infection
Bacteria causing tooth decay may cause infection of the dental pulp. This can result in significant pain and toothache because of the growing infection. If left untreated, this infection may spread to surrounding areas of the tooth and cause destruction of gum and bone.
Pain
Tooth decay causes irritation, inflammation and infection to the dental pulp which sits within the tooth. The dental pulp contains nerves which create pain signals in response to the bacteria and other toxins caused by tooth decay.
