We’ve all been there—you feel a twinge of sensitivity when drinking something cold, or a minor ache in a back tooth that comes and goes. It’s tempting to brush it off and hope it gets better on its own.

But when it comes to cavities, the longer you wait, the worse it gets.

At RGC Dentistry, we’ve treated thousands of patients who delayed care, only to discover that what could have been fixed with a small filling now requires a root canal, extraction, or even tooth replacement. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a permanently damaged area in the hard surface of your tooth caused by bacteria, acid, and poor oral hygiene. The process starts with demineralization and, without intervention, leads to progressive decay of enamel and dentin.

How Cavities Develop

Cavities don’t form overnight. They occur in stages:

1. Demineralization: Acid attacks the enamel, creating weak spots.
2. Enamel decay: A small hole (cavity) forms in the surface.
3. Dentin decay: The decay spreads deeper into the tooth.
4. Pulp infection: Bacteria reach the nerve tissue, causing severe pain and infection.
5. Abscess or tooth death: Without treatment, the tooth may die or cause a dangerous infection.

The Cost of Delaying Cavity Treatment

Treating a cavity early often means a simple, inexpensive filling. But ignoring it can result in:

• Painful infections
• Larger restorations like crowns
• Root canal therapy
• Tooth loss and need for dental implants in Surprise AZ
• Bone loss in the jaw
• Emergency dental visits

The earlier you treat decay, the easier and more affordable it is.

Symptoms of an Untreated Cavity

You may not feel anything at first—but as the cavity progresses, common symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Visible holes or dark spots
• Swelling or pus (in advanced cases)
• Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

What Happens If You Lose the Tooth?

If decay progresses too far, the only solution may be tooth extraction. While we always aim to preserve natural teeth, some cases require replacement.

Fortunately, modern solutions like dental implants in Surprise restore both function and appearance with long-lasting results. Dental implants integrate with your jawbone to prevent bone loss, restore full chewing ability, and maintain the natural alignment of your teeth.

How We Treat Cavities at RGC Dentistry

Our team takes a gentle, no-judgment approach to treatment. If you suspect a cavity, we’ll perform a comprehensive exam (including X-rays, if needed) and present all your options. Common treatments include:

• Tooth-colored fillings
• Dental crowns for large areas of damage
• Root canal therapy to remove infection and save the tooth
• Extractions and implant placement in severe cases

We also offer sedation options for patients who experience anxiety during dental procedures.

Prevention Is Always the Best Strategy

While our team is skilled at treating decay, our top priority is prevention. Keep cavities at bay with:

• Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste
• Daily flossing
• Reducing sugary snacks and beverages
• Drinking plenty of water
• Scheduling a professional cleaning every 6 months

Looking for a dentist near Surprise who focuses on long-term prevention and education? We’ve got you covered.

Let’s Save That Tooth Before It’s Too Late

At RGC Dentistry, we want you to enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile for life. Ignoring a cavity might save time today—but it can cost you your tooth (and more) tomorrow.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or just haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to take action. We’re here to help—without judgment, pressure, or upselling.

Schedule your appointment with RGC Dentistry in Surprise, AZ today. From cavity prevention to full dental implants, we’re your trusted partners in oral health.