When patients experience tooth decay, it is so important to make sure you speak to a dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. What nobody tells you about tooth decay is that, if left untreated, it can result in some serious issues. Tooth decay left undiagnosed and untreated is not just a minor discomfort for patients who develop sensitivities to certain foods (i.e. candies) or experience pain when enjoying beverages of varying temperatures. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, a cavity can become so large that it affects the dental pulp inside of the tooth. At this point, root canal therapy is the only way a dentist can attempt to save the tooth structure itself. If the root canal fails, patients are faced with permanent extraction and replacement options.

Tooth decay is completely preventable. Patients are urged to see their dentist at least twice a year for an evaluation and a thorough cleaning. When x-rays are done, Dr. Arto Aslanyan of SofiaDental can also evaluate the structures of the teeth that are underneath the gum line and are not visible in any other way. X-rays are great for diagnostic work. However, when patients fail to see their dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, they are putting their smile at risk. Cavities can form and not be painful, making it difficult for some patients to realize they are even there!

Left untreated, the tooth can become infected. Root canal therapy is a procedure that can be performed to save the tooth, but it is not always successful.