That little twinge you feel when you drink something cold—is it just a sensitive tooth, or could it be a cavity? Understanding the signs of a cavity means you’ll know when it’s time to schedule one of your bi-annual dental check-ups.
The most common signs of a cavity include tooth sensitivity, pain when you bite down, and visible discolouration or holes on your tooth’s surface. While these signs are helpful indicators, a professional dental exam at our clinic is the only way to know for sure.
Common Signs & Symptoms of a Cavity
Cavities don’t always cause discomfort, especially when they first start. However, as tooth decay—a hole in the tooth caused by bacteria producing acid—gets a little more serious, you might start to notice that something is off.
Here some of the major symptoms to look for:
- Toothache or Spontaneous Pain: A toothache that seems to appear without any obvious cause can be a sign of a cavity. This pain can feel dull or sharp and may come and go.
- Tooth Sensitivity: You might feel a short, sharp pain when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet. This happens when decay gets closer to the nerve inside your tooth.
- Pain When You Bite Down: Feeling pressure or pain when you chew your food is a frequent symptom and can indicate a problem with a specific tooth.
- Visible Holes or Pits: Sometimes, you can actually see a small hole or pit in your tooth. This is a clear sign that the tooth’s structure has been damaged.
- Staining on Your Tooth: A cavity can look like a brown, black, or even white stain on the surface of a tooth. This discolouration indicates that the enamel is weakening.
How You Can Check for Cavities at Home
While only a dental professional can properly diagnose a cavity, you can look for potential signs at home between visits. A quick self-check is a great habit that can help you stay on top of your oral health. It only takes a minute in front of a mirror.
Look for Changes in Colour
Check your teeth in a well-lit mirror after brushing. Look for any unusual discolouration, from chalky white patches to darker brown or black spots. A chalky or opaque spot can be an early sign that minerals are being lost from your enamel.
Feel for Rough Spots
Gently run your tongue over all your teeth—front and back. Do you feel any rough surfaces, pits, or areas where food seems to get stuck often? These could be spots where your enamel has started to break down.
Pay Attention to Pain & Sensitivity
Keep a mental note of which teeth feel sensitive and when it happens. If a specific tooth consistently bothers you when you eat ice cream or drink hot tea, it’s worth mentioning at your next dental visit. This information can help your dentist pinpoint a potential issue.
What Can Be Mistaken for a Cavity?
Not every spot or twinge of sensitivity means you have a cavity. Other common issues can mimic the symptoms of tooth decay. These include:
- Tooth Stains: Drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can leave surface stains on your teeth. These spots are usually just cosmetic and not a sign of decay.
- Enamel Wear: Grinding your teeth or general wear can expose the sensitive layer beneath your enamel. This can lead to sensitivity that feels a lot like a cavity.
- A Cracked Tooth: A tiny, hard-to-see crack in a tooth can cause pain when you bite down. The feeling can be very similar to the discomfort from a cavity.
Can a Cavity Go Away on Its Own?
The answer depends on the stage of decay. In the very earliest stage—when it’s just a weak spot in the enamel—good oral hygiene can sometimes help reverse the process. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing can help your enamel remineralize and stop the weak spot from turning into a full-blown cavity.
However, once the enamel surface is broken and a true cavity has formed, it can’t heal itself. The damage to the tooth structure is permanent at that point. It will need professional treatment, like a dental filling, to restore the tooth’s health and prevent further problems.
Simple Steps for Cavity Prevention
The good news is that you can take simple, proactive steps to protect your family’s teeth from cavities. Building a consistent routine can make a huge difference in your family’s long-term oral health. It all starts with a few easy habits.
Rule for Brushing
A great habit for everyone in the family is to brush 2 times a day for 2 minutes each time, following proper brushing techniques. And, of course, you should visit your dentist 2 times a year for check-ups and cleanings. This is one of the most effective ways to keep cavities away.
Why Floss Every Day
Your toothbrush is great, but it can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth and under your gums. Flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles from these hidden areas.
Watch Your Sugar Intake
Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and starches to create acids that attack your tooth enamel. You can help reduce your risk of decay by limiting sugary drinks and snacks. Rinsing your mouth with water after a sweet treat can also help wash away lingering sugar.
If you or someone in your family is experiencing any of the signs listed here, it’s a good idea to book an appointment. Regular check-ups are also important, as they allow us to spot and treat small problems before they become bigger ones.
Our team at Shawnessy Dental Centre is ready to help you with personalized care and advice for your entire family. As your Dentist in Shawnessy, we’re here to keep your smiles healthy and bright. Contact us today to schedule your next visit!
