A cavity may seem like a small inconvenience, especially if it’s not causing pain. But untreated tooth decay is more than a minor nuisance—it’s a ticking time bomb for your oral health. At Woodbury Dental Associates, we want every patient to understand what can happen when a cavity is ignored.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a hole in your tooth caused by decay. It starts when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—feeds on sugar and releases acid that erodes your enamel. Over time, that acid bores into deeper layers of the tooth, compromising its structure and causing infection.

Even if you're seeing a dentist near Wenonah for regular checkups, cavities can form in hidden areas, making it critical to stay proactive.

The Progression of Untreated Tooth Decay

1. Initial Decay (Enamel Erosion)
   At first, decay affects only the outer layer. It can often be reversed with fluoride treatment or sealed with a small filling.
2. Dentin Involvement
   Once decay reaches the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel), the damage accelerates. The tooth becomes sensitive to sweets, hot/cold temperatures, and pressure.
3. Pulp Infection
   The pulp is the tooth's inner chamber containing nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria reach this area, it can lead to severe pain and infection.
4. Abscess Formation
   A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the root of the tooth. It can cause swelling, fever, jaw pain, and even life-threatening complications if left untreated.
5. Tooth Loss or Extraction
   When a tooth is too damaged to be saved, extraction becomes the only option. This leads to more complex treatments like dental bridges or restorative work to rebuild your smile.

Patients searching for an emergency dentist in Wenonah NJ often land in our office because of these exact scenarios.

The Hidden Cost of Delaying Treatment

Ignoring a cavity may save money today, but it guarantees more expensive procedures down the road:

• Simple Filling – $100–$300
• Root Canal & Crown – $1,000–$2,500
• Extraction + Dental Bridge or Implant – $2,000–$4,000+

As a trusted restorative and cosmetic dentist in Wenonah NJ, our goal is to help you avoid major expenses by acting early.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets
• Sharp pain when biting down
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Discoloration or visible hole in the tooth
• Swelling in the gums or jaw

If you're noticing any of these, don’t search for a dentist near me Wenonah—just call us directly. Early intervention is always better than waiting.

How We Treat Cavities at Woodbury Dental Associates

• Composite Fillings – Tooth-colored and durable.
• Crowns – For larger cavities, a crown restores both function and aesthetics.
• Root Canal Therapy – Removes infection while preserving your natural tooth.
• Tooth-Colored Restorations – Our cosmetic dentistry services ensure your smile looks just as good as it feels.

We pride ourselves on being a top dentist in Wenonah NJ, known for advanced techniques and personalized care.

Prevention: The Best Medicine

Preventing cavities is easier than treating them. Stick with:

• Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste
• Daily flossing
• Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
• Regular visits for teeth cleanings and exams

As a full-service practice offering both general and emergency dental care in Wenonah, we’re here to support your entire dental journey.

Final Thoughts

Cavities may start small, but they don’t stay that way. Ignoring a cavity is a surefire way to invite pain, expense, and long-term damage.

If you're overdue for a checkup, trust Woodbury Dental Associates—your local team of experts in cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry in Wenonah NJ.

Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier smile.