Cavity Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

How do I Know if I Have a Cavity?

Cavities can make your mouth feel like a wreck. Other times, you may experience no symptoms, and your cavity may fly under the radar. Cavities, or ‘dental caries’, are damaged areas of your enamel. The damage is typically a result of plaque, a bacterial film that thrives off the food and drinks that pass through your mouth. Regular dental cleanings are essential in the prevention of cavities. So, how do you know if you have a cavity?

What are Signs That You Have a Cavity?

While common, it can still be easy to overlook some of the subtle signs of cavities. Here are the top 4 symptoms of cavities that should catch your attention:

1. You Have a Toothache

One of the most common causes of toothaches is tooth decay. If a toothache comes on suddenly and nothing else about your dental health has changed, it could be due to a cavity instead. As cavities work through your enamel, they work down into the next level, which is known as your dentin. If left unresolved, the cavity can move down into the living tissue and cells in your teeth, known as the pulp and cause a great deal of pain.

2. You Feel Sensitivity or Pain

What does a cavity feel like? You may just have sensitive teeth, or the pain you feel could be a sign of something else. When a cavity enters the hollow canals in your teeth known as microscopic tubules, acidic, cold, hot, sticky, or sweet foods may stimulate your nerves and cause pain.

3. You See a Hole or Pit on Your Tooth

When a cavity first forms, you may see a stain on your teeth. However, when erosion gets worse, your cavity will begin to burrow into your tooth and form a hole or pit. This is a clear sign that your cavity requires dental help.

4. Your Teeth are Stained

Of course, your teeth can stain from certain foods and drinks or from smoking. But before you’re set that whitening your teeth is the answer, consider that staining could also be a sign of cavities. If you notice a discolored spot on your teeth, your tooth may be decaying. Cavities usually appear as white marks, but they may eventually pick up other colors such as black or brown.

What does a cavity feel like?

When you have a cavity, it means that bacteria has invaded and is causing damage to your tooth. This damage can take the form of a small hole, or it can be more extensive, involving the whole tooth. Cavities often cause tooth pain, which can range from a mild twinge to severe pain. The pain may be constant or may only occur when pressure is applied to the tooth, such as when you bite down. If you think you may have a cavity, it's important to see your dentist right away for treatment. cavities can continue to get worse over time, and if left untreated, they can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Making an Appointment Immediately

When left untreated, a cavity can cause so much damage to a tooth that it may need to be extracted.