How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

Cavities are holes that form on the tooth's surface from tooth decay. They are a common oral health issue and can be small and barely noticeable to large and painful. 

So how do you know if you have a cavity? Possible signs can include tooth sensitivity, pain or discomfort when biting or chewing, and visible holes or discoloured areas on the teeth.

To ensure healthy gums and teeth, visit your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. Because without treatment, cavities can lead to further decay and tooth loss. 

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity, also known as tooth decay, is a hole that forms on the surface of a tooth. Cavities result from plaque buildup, a sticky film that sticks to the teeth, which consists of bacteria, food debris, acid, and saliva. 

Bacteria in plaque produce acid that can erode the enamel (the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth). Plaque can remain on the teeth from inadequate brushing, flossing, and skipping dental cleanings.

Symptoms of decay can worsen as the cavity gets more prominent and eventually reaches the softer dentin layer underneath. Anyone can get cavities, but the following factors can increase your risk:

• Sugary foods and drinks like soda, juice, ice cream, and chips

• Poor brushing or no brushing after eating and drinking

• Insufficient fluoride 

• A dry mouth has less saliva to wash away food and plaque

• Acid reflux disease can increase acid in the mouth

5 Signs & Symptoms You Have a Cavity

Initially, you might not have any symptoms if the cavity is small or on the surface. But as the cavity grows in size, you can experience some or all of the following signs and symptoms:

Sensitivity to Hot & Cold

Tooth sensitivity to hold or cold foods can indicate a cavity. If your tooth doesn't have enough enamel or the enamel starts to wear away, your dentin (hard tissue layer below the enamel) is exposed. 

It's easier for hot, cold, acidic, and sticky foods to stimulate the cells and nerves inside the tooth and lead to sensitivity. 

Sensitivity to Sweets

Apart from sensitivity to hot and cold, you can also experience sensitivity to sugary foods and drinks. Sensitivity can include lingering discomfort from sweets because of enamel damage or a cavity. 

Toothache

A toothache can appear suddenly or in response to something you eat. Usually, a common symptom of a cavity is an ongoing ache in one or more of your teeth. Accompanying symptoms can include pain, discomfort, and sometimes pressure when biting down on food. 

Tooth Staining

White spots on the tooth's surface can indicate early tooth decay. And as the decay progresses, stains on the tooth can become darker, causing brown or black spots on the surface. 

Holes or Pits in Teeth

As cavities grow, they form a hole, pit, or dent in the enamel. You may see it in the mirror or feel it with your tongue over the tooth's surface. If the cavity is between the teeth or in crevices, you may not see or feel it, but it can still cause pain or sensitivity. 

Treatment for Cavities

Treating cavities involves removing the decay and repairing and restoring the normal function and shape of the tooth. Treatment for a cavity depends on the severity and location of the decay. Treatment options can include:

• Fillings: Tooth-coloured composite fillings can fill in the hole and restore defects made by cavities. They are safe, functional, and can match your other teeth. 

• Crowns: If one or more teeth have significant damage from cavities, a dental crown or cap offers a natural, secure, and comfortable option to restore your tooth or teeth.

• Root Canal: A deep cavity is when decay has reached the tooth's center. If this happens, you can experience pain and sometimes develop an infection. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, clean it, and fill it with a sealant. You may need a filling or a crown to restore the function and look of the tooth. 

Ways to Prevent Cavities

There are several ways to prevent cavities and maintain good oral health:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 

2. Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth.

3. Rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

4. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks.

5. Drink lots of water to rinse the mouth and stimulate saliva flow. 

6. Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.

Early Detection for Cavity Prevention

Cavities start small and sometimes with no visible signs or symptoms. But they can progress to a point where they can cause pain, sensitivity, and tooth loss.  

The best way to prevent cavities is to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. If you suspect you have a cavity, book an appointment with Shine Dental today.