Dental Lesions
A dental lesion is an area of decay, damage, or pathology in the hard tissues of the teeth, such as enamel, dentin, and cementum. Dental lesions can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor oral hygiene, excessive consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, smoking, and grinding of the teeth.
Consequences of Untreated Dental Lesions
When a dental lesion is left untreated, it can lead to a range of serious issues. These issues can include:
• Tooth decay: This is the most common consequence of an untreated dental lesion. Decay can damage the enamel and dentin, leading to cavities, pain, and even loss of the tooth.
• Tooth infection: Bacteria can enter the tooth through an untreated lesion and cause an infection. This can lead to severe pain, swelling, and the need for root canal therapy.
• Tooth loss: If a dental lesion is left untreated, it can lead to a severe infection that requires the tooth to be removed.
• Gum disease: Untreated dental lesions can allow bacteria to enter the gums, leading to inflammation and infection.
• Jawbone deterioration: When a tooth is lost due to an untreated lesion, the jawbone in that area can start to deteriorate. This can lead to further complications such as difficulty in chewing and speaking.
Treating Dental Lesions
It is important to treat dental lesions as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Depending on the severity of the lesion, treatment may include:
• Fillings: This is the most common treatment for dental lesions. The dentist will remove the decayed area and fill it with a dental material such as composite resin.
• Crowns: If a lesion is too large, a crown may be needed to cover the tooth.
• Root canals: If the lesion has caused an infection, root canal therapy may be needed to remove the infection and save the tooth.
• Extraction: If the lesion has caused severe damage to the tooth, it may need to be extracted.
Preventing Dental Lesions
To prevent dental lesions, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and to quit smoking if you are a smoker.