Cavities are one of the most common oral health problems, but many patients don’t realize they have one until it becomes painful. Caused by tooth decay, a cavity can develop slowly, starting with small signs that are easy to overlook. Catching a cavity early is key to preventing more serious issues, such as infections, root canals, or even tooth loss.
The good news is that your mouth often gives you warning signals when something isn’t right. In this blog, we’ll cover five common signs of a cavity and what steps you can take to protect your smile. From recognizing early symptoms to making better oral care choices, you’ll learn how to stay ahead of tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Signs You Have a Cavity
The best way to identify whether you have a cavity is by understanding the signs that it has developed. Some of the clearest signs that you may have a cavity include:
1. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Foods and Beverages
Although it isn’t unusual to experience some sensitivity immediately after consuming hot and cold foods and beverages, persistent pain can be a sign of a larger issue. As your enamel is worn down by tooth decay, this exposes the underlying nerves, leading to more sensitivity than you’ve previously experienced. If this sensitivity persists for more than a few seconds, it may be time to visit the dentist to determine if you have a cavity.
2. Persistent Toothaches
You may experience a minor toothache after a tooth injury. However, these aches often go away after a day. If you’re experiencing a toothache that won’t subside, even when you’re using an over-the-counter pain medication, this may be a sign of cavity development. This pain often occurs when you bite down while eating or may develop while you’re drinking a hot or cold beverage.
3. Newly Developed Tooth Stain
It isn’t uncommon to develop some stains on the surface of your teeth, especially if you drink coffee or wine or eat dark-colored fruits and vegetables. However, if you notice white spots appearing on your teeth, this may be an indication that you’re developing a cavity. As your cavity worsens, it isn’t uncommon for these stains to become darker. Most stains from cavities are brown, black, or white.
4. Sensitivity to Sweets
While you might love having a treat throughout the day, your teeth may not appreciate it as much. If you’ve noticed heightened sensitivity while eating candies or drinking a sugary beverage, this is often the result of a cavity. This sensitivity tends to linger and often appears when your cavity has just begun to develop, so it’s important to address it as soon as this sensitivity emerges.
5. Holes and Pitting on the Tooth
One of the clearest signs that you’ve developed a cavity is the presence of holes and pits across the surface of your tooth. When your cavity worsens, these pits begin to form. In some cases, these pits form in the crevices of your teeth and cannot be seen or felt. However, other pits will form on the flat surface of the tooth and are visible when looking in a mirror.
What to Do When You Develop Cavities
If you believe you’ve developed a cavity, time is of the essence. You should contact a trusted dental team as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. There isn’t much you can do at home until you understand the severity of your cavity, and the only way to determine this is through a comprehensive dental examination.
If your dentist finds that you’re experiencing a minor cavity, they may recommend professional fluoride treatments and a more comprehensive at-home oral hygiene routine. However, if you’re dealing with a more severe cavity, you may need professional treatment to preserve the tooth and prevent further damage.
For more severe cavities, your dentist will perform a filling to restore the tooth. During this procedure, your dentist will remove any decayed portion of your teeth. After this is removed, they will fill in this area with an amalgam, porcelain, or resin material, restoring the appearance and function of your tooth.
How to Prevent Cavity Development
The easiest way to treat a cavity is by preventing it from forming in the first place. But what can you do to avoid this? One of the easiest things you can do to protect your smile from cavity development is to maintain great at-home oral hygiene practices. You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice daily. When brushing, don’t forget to use a fluoride toothpaste.
Additionally, don’t forget to floss between every tooth at least once a day to remove any tough food, bacteria, and plaque. Take extra care to floss between your back teeth, where food and bacteria may hide. You should also incorporate a fluoride mouthwash into your routine, which can help you dislodge any debris you miss while flossing.
Finally, don’t forget to schedule your twice-yearly dental cleanings. During these appointments, your dental team will take X-rays and examine your teeth to catch the earliest signs of cavity development. If they spot minor decay, they can give you advice on how to treat it to prevent it from worsening and compromising your oral health.
Achieve Your Healthiest Smile in Brigham City
If you believe you’ve developed a cavity, it’s essential that you reach out to a trusted dental team for support as soon as possible. With their support, you can restore the appearance and function of your tooth, avoiding further oral health complications. If you’re looking for a reliable dental team in the Brigham City area, turn to our team at Jenson Dental.
For decades, our team has provided patients across the area with comprehensive dental care. From your standard teeth cleanings to fillings, restorative care, and more, we’re confident that we can help you achieve your best oral health. No matter what oral health ailment you’re experiencing, our team has your back.
When you’re ready to schedule an appointment with our dental team, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
