A cavity is among the most common dental issues that we deal with. Even if you brush and floss properly and regularly, you can spot the brown, black, or yellow cavity spot on your tooth’s surface. A cavity occurs when tooth decay progresses, forming a hole in your tooth’s enamel layer. But how to tell if you have a cavity? Carry on reading to learn the signs of a cavity.
How Can You Tell if You Have a Cavity?
Many symptoms of a cavity occur if you have tooth decay. In addition, many signs indicate that an existing cavity is becoming larger.
Here are some ways to tell if you have a cavity:
1. You Have Tooth Sensitivity
When you eat and drink something that is too hot or too cold, do your teeth feel sensitive? It could indicate that you have a cavity. The dentin layer of our tooth comprises many microscopic hollow tubes, which could get exposed once the enamel wears away. Lack of enamel allows the hot, cold, sticky, or acidic food to affect the nerves and cells within your tooth. Consequently, you’ll feel the sensitivity due to tooth decay.
2. Your Tooth is Sensitive to Sugar
If you experience tooth sensitivity after eating something sweet or having sugary drinks, it could be a cavity symptom. Just like temperature sensitivity, enamel damage is the cause of discomfort. After your tooth comes in contact with sugar, you might have a toothache due to the sensitivity.
3. You Have Toothache
Constant toothache in one or more teeth could be a sign of a cavity. You may experience a toothache suddenly or after eating something. Moreover, your tooth might hurt when biting down. The aching might even spread in and around your mouth.
4. There is Staining on Your Tooth
Cavity symptoms can help you determine if your tooth has decayed or not. But what does a cavity look like? First, it appears as a white spot on your tooth’s surface. Gradually, it becomes darker if left untreated. The stain could be black, brown, or white.
5. Your Tooth has a Hole or a Pit
If you don’t get cavity treatment, the white spot can worsen into a hole or a pit in your tooth. You can feel the cavity hole by running your tongue over the tooth’s surface. Furthermore, it might be visible as well. A pit or hole is not something to take lightly; visit your dentist immediately to get treated.
6. You have a Bad Breath
The food particles not only affect your dental health but can also cause bad breath if you don’t brush. However, persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing or mouth rinses could mean you have a cavity. Your dentist can help you learn how to get rid of a cavity and the different options available.
7. You Have Swollen Gums
Is your gum swollen around one or more teeth? A cavity can affect your gums by causing swelling and tenderness.
What Should I Do?
Now that you’ve learned how to tell if you have a cavity, visit your dentist right away when you notice the symptoms. They will inspect your teeth to treat them in the most suitable manner. Our Ava Dental team is always here to help you improve your oral health. Give us a ring at (855) 228-2336.