Tooth decay is a condition that is often taken for granted. In fact, if left unchecked, the hole in the tooth can enlarge and cause severe pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Recognize the risks and dangers of cavities so you can be aware of them.
Cavities can be caused by various things, ranging from poor oral hygiene, the appearance of dental plaque, to consuming a lot of sugary foods or drinks. This condition can happen to anyone, both children and adults. The condition of cavities and dirty teeth can also cause bad breath.
Cavities can lead to tooth abscesses, swelling, shifting of tooth position after tooth loss, to serious infections that can be life-threatening. Therefore, the condition of cavities must receive treatment as soon as possible.
Complications of Cavities
Dental and oral health can affect the overall condition of the body. Therefore, cavities need to be treated immediately. There are several complications that can arise when cavities are left untreated, including:
1. Toothache
Cavities can cause toothache. The pain in the tooth can not only interfere with concentration, but also daily activities.
If the pain that appears lasts for a long time, this condition can make your appetite decrease so you will lose weight.
2. Tooth abscess
Cavities that are left untreated can lead to a tooth abscess, which is the formation of pockets of pus in the teeth and gums due to bacterial infection.
If not treated properly, this infection can lead to serious complications that can endanger the life of the sufferer.
3. Endocarditis and sinusitis
Bacteria from cavities can cause infection of the walls and valves of the heart. This condition is also known as endocarditis. In addition, bacterial infections of the teeth can also spread to the walls of the sinus cavities and cause sinusitis.
4. Sepsis
Bacteria in cavities can enter the bloodstream and cause an infection called sepsis. This condition occurs when the body fights an infection uncontrollably, damaging its own tissues.
Sepsis can progress to septic shock, which causes damage to organs and even death. This condition should also be watched out for by pregnant women, because it can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Tips Preventing Cavities
There are several ways you can do to prevent cavities, including:
Check your teeth regularly
Regular dental check-ups are very important to prevent problems with teeth and mouth. It is recommended that you have your teeth checked by a dentist at least every 6 months.
In addition to consulting about dental health, you can also undergo dental cleaning measures to prevent the emergence of bacteria that cause cavities.
Consumption of low-sugar foods and drinks
The main cause of cavities is the consumption of sugary foods and drinks in excess. Sugar in food or drink is converted to acid by bacteria in the mouth, which can damage tooth enamel. This damage to tooth enamel can cause cavities.
Instead, you can eat fruit or chew gum that does not contain sugar. You are also allowed to enjoy coffee and tea, as long as it does not add sugar.
Brush teeth regularly
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after eating and before going to bed at night. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent cavities and porous teeth, as well as maintain a protective layer of teeth.
After brushing your teeth, clean between your teeth using dental floss or gargle using mouthwash containing fluoride.
Mdrink enough water
You are also advised to drink more water to prevent cavities. Water can increase the production of saliva in the mouth which acts to channel fluoride throughout the tooth.
Tooth decay is a common condition experienced by almost everyone. However, this condition cannot be underestimated, because it has risks and is dangerous for health.
Therefore, if you experience symptoms of cavities, such as toothache for no apparent reason, your teeth ache when consuming food or drink, especially if you see a hole in your tooth, check with your doctor so that the right treatment can be done.