Tooth decay can lead to a lot of unpleasant problems, from painful cavities to periodontal disease. If you notice a bad taste in your mouth, pain in a particular tooth, or extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Not only will seeking treatment help you avoid unnecessary pain, but it can save you a lot of time and treatments in the long run.

Why Early Treatment Is Crucial for Tooth Decay

1. Isolated Cavities

Tooth decay occurs when food particles remain trapped between or on teeth, leading to the development of plaque. This plaque begins to eat away at the tooth’s surface and causes rotting and decay. Once decay sets in, a cavity forms in the tooth and can cause pain to the affected area, surrounding gums, and jaw. When caught early, this tooth decay remains isolated and usually requires just a small filling by a dentist.

2. Avoid Costly & Time-Consuming Procedures

If tooth decay treatment is delayed, the cavity will become larger and require more extensive (and expensive) treatments. While a small filling typically only takes around 20 to 30 minutes to complete (including time for anesthesia to set in), more complex dental procedures can take longer or require multiple visits to the dentist. When ignored, a serious cavity may call for a root canal, crown, dental implant, or extraction. These problems are more complicated than a simple filling and will cost more money, as well.

3. Better Overall Oral Hygiene

Tooth decay doesn’t just impact the afflicted tooth; it can also aggravate the surrounding gums. Ignoring cavities can lead to gingivitis, which can cause inflamed or bleeding gums and develop into gum disease. Once periodontal disease occurs, gums may begin to recede, which can cause teeth to become loose or fall out. Handling your cavities when they’re still small allows the balance and health of your overall oral hygiene to be restored.

Four Corners Dental Group has offices in both Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, allowing them to serve the dental needs of both communities. Whether you need a routine teeth cleaning or treatment for tooth decay, the dentists have the knowledge and expertise needed to perform the procedures important to your oral hygiene. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the practices, call (907) 258-3384 or visit their website.