Providing protection for your oral structures is essential for maintaining a lifelong smile. While there are a handful of effective practices out there, it is important to recognize that there are significantly more sources of damage than there are defenses, and your at-home preventive routine should be reflective of that. Still, providing care without understanding the purpose behind it can lead to subpar treatment, which is the last thing we want to occur. In today’s blog, your Conroe, TX dentist explores the impact of progressing tooth decay on your oral health, and how you can take strides to provide more involved care.

Just a Minor Cavity

When we ask our patients about the biggest oral health threats that are out there, many are quick to identify tooth decay and its subsequent effects: and they are correct. While it may not be the most damaging in its early stages, tooth decay is a common oral health concern that affects millions of individuals in the U.S. every single year. What’s more? Many more do not even know there is an issue at hand until it has progressed significantly to the point that noticeable signs and symptoms are impacting daily activities.

But why is it that a minor toothache can lead to major repercussions? Simply put, it is the oral bacteria and other germs present that exacerbate the problem, and in order to keep these microorganisms at bay, you must practice thorough prevention.

In the earliest of stages, dental decay may present as a softened or darkened portion of a tooth known as a carrie, or even a small hole known as a cavity. Though these can be simply addressed with a filling, the longer you wait, the more trouble will come your way.

Infecting Your Roots

Unlike an upset stomach or a headache, a toothache will not go away with time. This is because the ache or pain you are experiencing is caused by bacterial infection. In fact, the infection itself will not simply disappear, but rather, will continue to work its way deeper into the inner workings of a tooth.

As the infection enters your inner tooth, it will cause damage to the sensitive nerves that are housed in your roots. Over time, this can lead to significant pain, discomfort, and other concerns. To learn more about this process, give our team a call today.

Facing Possible Tooth Loss

Without obtaining effective restorative treatment, your infection will keep getting worse. Eventually, you will suffer the effects of tooth loss, and the process will not cease until all of your structures are gone. Because of this, early intervention is a must.

Schedule Your Appointment

To learn more about the way tooth decay affects your oral health, contact The Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX by calling 936-441-4600 and schedule your next appointment with our team today.