Oral health is an integral component of overall well-being, and yet it doesn’t often receive the attention it deserves. Untreated cavities, also known as dental caries, can lead to severe health problems if ignored. Understanding the implications of leaving cavities untreated and knowing what next steps to take are necessary for optimal health and well-being.
Let’s go through what dental offices need you to know about untreated cavities.
What Causes Cavities?
Dental cavities are caused by the breakdown of tooth enamel due to bacteria. This bacterial infection is often the result of poor dental hygiene and a diet high in sugars and acids that can damage your teeth over time. Alarmingly, the prevalence of untreated cavities is quite high, especially among young populations. Statistics from the CDC’s dental offices show that 13.2% of children aged 5-19 years have untreated cavities, which indicates a significant public health concern needing urgent attention.
What Happens If Cavities Are Left Untreated?
The consequences of leaving cavities untreated can be severe and extend beyond oral health. If cavities aren’t treated, they can lead to more significant dental problems such as infections, abscesses, and even tooth loss. These complications can, in turn, affect a person’s ability to eat, speak, and socialize comfortably. Furthermore, dental offices warn that the pain and discomfort associated with untreated cavities can impact a child’s ability to concentrate in school, affecting their educational outcomes.
Can Untreated Cavities Cause Wider Health Issues?
Treating cavities early is not only crucial for maintaining oral health but also for preventing systemic health issues. The spread of infection from untreated cavities can enter the bloodstream and contribute to more extensive health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Access to preventative dental care and education on proper oral hygiene practices are essential strategies to reduce the incidence of untreated dental cavities. Dental offices report that regular dental check-ups are critical in catching these issues early before they develop into more severe conditions.
Untreated cavities present a significant yet often overlooked public health issue. By understanding the importance of regular dental care and adopting good oral hygiene habits, we can significantly reduce the occurrence of untreated cavities, especially among children. Addressing this issue requires a combined effort from individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers to ensure dental health is given the priority it deserves.
If you don’t have a local dentist, contact our family dental office today to get the help you need.
