Tooth pain is one of those things many people try to tough out. You might feel a twinge when drinking something cold or notice a bit of sensitivity, but without major pain, it’s easy to put off treatment. However, when it comes to cavities, waiting is almost always a mistake.

At Ardary Family Dentistry in Temecula, we often see patients who wish they had addressed a cavity sooner. What starts as a minor issue can quickly progress into something more serious, expensive, and painful.

If you think you may have a cavity—or you’re overdue for a checkup—here’s what you need to know about what happens when you ignore it.

What Is a Cavity, Really?

A cavity is permanent damage to the hard surface of your tooth, caused by bacteria and acids. When plaque isn’t removed effectively, the bacteria feed on sugars in your mouth and produce acid that wears away the enamel.

Once the enamel is weakened, a small hole begins to form. At first, this may be painless—but it continues to grow. Without treatment, that decay can:

• Penetrate the deeper layers of the tooth
• Infect the nerve tissue inside
• Spread to adjacent teeth or bone
• Result in tooth loss or systemic infection

The Stages of Tooth Decay

1. Demineralization
   White spots or soft areas on the enamel indicate mineral loss. At this stage, fluoride and improved hygiene may help reverse it.
2. Enamel Breakdown
   The cavity begins to form. There may be no pain yet. A filling in Temecula can easily stop the progression.
3. Dentin Exposure
   Decay reaches the dentin, a softer layer beneath enamel. Sensitivity increases, especially to sweets and temperature.
4. Pulp Infection
   The bacteria reach the pulp—where the tooth’s nerve lives. Pain becomes sharp and persistent. A root canal may be needed.
5. Abscess and Bone Loss
   Infection can spread beyond the tooth into the bone and surrounding tissue. This may require a tooth extraction or even a dental implant to replace the lost tooth.

Why Waiting Costs More

It’s far easier (and more affordable) to treat a cavity when it’s small. A simple dental filling takes about 30 minutes. But once decay spreads, you may need:

• A dental crown to restore structural integrity
• A root canal to remove infection
• A bridge or implant to replace a lost tooth
• Even a denture if multiple teeth are compromised

Early treatment doesn’t just save money—it saves your natural teeth and avoids the need for more invasive procedures.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Visible holes or discoloration
• Gum swelling or a bad taste in your mouth
• Pain that comes and goes (a sign of nerve involvement)

If you’re experiencing any of these, schedule a visit with our Temecula dental team as soon as possible.

How We Treat Cavities at Ardary Family Dentistry

Our practice is committed to providing comprehensive care using modern techniques and a gentle approach. Depending on the stage of your cavity, we may recommend:

• Tooth-colored fillings – Ideal for small to moderate decay; natural-looking and durable.
• Crowns – Often used when a tooth has been weakened by extensive decay.
• Root canal therapy – Required if the pulp is infected but the tooth can still be saved.
• Tooth extraction and replacement – If the tooth is too damaged, we’ll explore options like dental implants or bridges.

We’ll always explain your options and help you choose the most conservative, effective treatment plan.

Prevention: The Best Solution

Want to avoid cavities altogether? Here are some tips from our Temecula dental team:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks
• Get professional teeth cleanings every six months
• Use fluoride rinses or prescription toothpaste if you’re cavity-prone
• Don’t skip X-rays—they help catch decay early

And if you’ve had past dental work like veneers, crowns, or dentures, keeping the surrounding teeth healthy is even more important.

Your Partner in Long-Term Oral Health

At Ardary Family Dentistry, we don’t just fix teeth—we help you protect them. Whether it’s a small cavity or a complete smile restoration, we offer comprehensive services in a warm, patient-focused environment.

Our Temecula team is proud to be a trusted provider for everything from cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers to restorative care, including gum disease therapy and dental implants.

Don’t Wait—Schedule Your Visit Today

If you’ve been putting off that small cavity—or if you’re just ready to get back on track with your dental health—our team is here for you. We’ll assess your needs, explain your options, and make sure you leave with a smile.

Contact Ardary Family Dentistry in Temecula, CA to schedule your visit today.