How Can You Tell If You Have a Cavity?

 

No matter your age, maintaining good dental health is important. As people age, they become more prone to mouth infections. When teeth get older, the protective enamel on them erodes more quickly, which facilitates the development of cavities. Let’s learn more about this common dental issue and how to tell if you have a cavity.

 

How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

Depending on the number of teeth involved, the location and severity of the pain, and other factors, several telltale signs and symptoms of dental decay may be present. Initially, little surface cavities might not show any symptoms, but as they worsen, you might experience the following:

  • White spots on the surface of the tooth indicate early tooth decay
  • Brown or black spots on the surface of the tooth suggest developing tooth decay
  • Visible holes or dents in the tooth enamel
  • Sensitivity or toothache in a pronounced area of a tooth
  • Generalized toothache or jaw pain
  • Pain when eating or drinking, especially hot, cold, sugary, or sour items
  • Pain when biting down or chewing food

 

What Is a Cavity?

In your tooth, a cavity is a hole. Most often, cavities form in the gaps between your teeth. You especially clean this area when you floss. Cavities develop as a result of oral bacteria releasing acids that eat away at the hard enamel surface of the tooth. Over time, cavities may harm the tooth’s softer layers more severely, resulting in pain, swelling around the afflicted area, an infection or abscess in the tooth and gums, and even partial or complete tooth loss.

 

It’s crucial to keep an eye out for any of these symptoms and take preventive action to help prevent cavities from forming. There are huge differences among toothaches. If you have a cavity, make an appointment by getting in touch with our staff.