How to Tell if You Have a Cavity | Know the Signs & Symptoms

Quick question: Have you ever experienced tooth pain after drinking a hot or cold drink? It turns out that this is a common occurrence. What is it? It’s likely a cavity! More specifically, it’s a dental issue that happens when harmful bacteria in your mouth produce acid that eats away at your tooth enamel. Over time, this can cause a hole, also known as a cavity, to form in your tooth. They say that ignorance is bliss, but that may not apply to oral health. Identifying cavities early and seeking dental care promptly to prevent further complications is crucial. So, it raises the question: How can you tell if you have a cavity?

“But only children get cavities!” The truth is that as long as you have teeth, you can get cavities. In fact, 92% of adults have experienced it. Now you’re thinking of the times you suddenly felt teeth sensitivity, or you couldn’t sleep that time because of sharp tooth pain. And remember when you noticed that strange brown stain in your tooth at the left side of your mouth? But who knows, maybe it’s just a regular stain from your food.

Instead of randomly speculating about your toothaches, we’re here to provide what you essentially need. Let’s talk about the signs and symptoms of cavities!

Signs and Symptoms of Cavities

When it comes to identifying a cavity, you should be aware of the following:

• One of the most common symptoms of a cavity is teeth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot or cold beverages or food, it could be a sign of a cavity. This sensitivity occurs because the cavity has worn away the protective layer of your tooth, known as the enamel.
• Another common symptom of a cavity is pain or discomfort when biting down or chewing. This symptom occurs because the cavity has weakened the tooth structure, making it more susceptible to pain and discomfort.
• Visible holes or pits in the teeth are also common signs of a cavity. If you notice you have any of these in your teeth, it could be a sign that a cavity has developed. Other symptoms, such as teeth sensitivity or pain, usually accompany these holes or pits.
• A toothache or pain that lingers is another symptom of a cavity. If you experience pain that lasts for more than a few seconds after consuming hot or cold beverages or food, it could be a sign of a cavity. This type of pain occurs because the cavity has progressed and now affects the nerve inside the tooth.

Treatment Options for Cavities

But the damage has been done. The harmful bacteria have increased already, and so the decaying continues. Don’t worry. You can still save your teeth and your bright smile. All it takes is a trip to a dentist! Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common treatments for cavities.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is often used to restore the shape and function of a tooth that has been severely damaged by a cavity. This treatment involves placing a cap or crown over the remaining portion of the tooth, providing added support and protection. The crown is typically made of durable material, such as porcelain, metal, or resin, and is custom-made to fit over the affected tooth.

Root Canal

If the cavity has spread to the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected pulp and preserve the tooth. During this procedure, a dentist will remove the damaged tissue, clean the area, and fill it with a special material to prevent further infection. After the root canal is complete, a crown or filling may be necessary to restore the tooth’s shape and function.

Cavity Fillings

Cavity filling is a common treatment option for minor to moderate cavities. This procedure involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the space with tooth-colored resin or other dental materials. The filling is then shaped and polished to match the natural contours of the tooth.

In some cases, an emergency cavity filling may be necessary to relieve pain or discomfort immediately. This treatment involves quickly filling the affected area with a temporary material until a permanent filling or crown can be placed.

Head to our FAQ page if you have more questions about these cavity treatments.

Prevention

What if you don’t want to go through all the treatment options? The good news is that you can follow several steps to prevent cavities from forming in the first place. Here’s what you can do today:

Brush and Floss

One of the most important things you can do is to brush and floss regularly. Brushing at least twice a day helps remove food particles and plaque that can lead to cavities. Brushing also stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to neutralize the acids produced by the bacteria in plaque. Using toothpaste with fluoride will work wonders on your oral health.

Flossing is also essential for preventing cavities, as it helps to remove plaque and food particles from the areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. These areas are particularly susceptible to cavities, as they’re often overlooked during regular brushing.

Lastly, using an antiseptic mouthwash also helps to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, further reducing the risk of cavities.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a protective coating that dentists put on the back teeth to stop bacteria from causing cavities. It’s recommended for children and adults who are cavity prone. The procedure is quick, easy, and painless.

Eat Healthily

In addition to regular brushing and flossing, eating a healthy diet can also help prevent cavities. Here are some ways that healthy eating can help prevent cavities:

• Reducing sugar intake: Sugar is a major contributor to cavities, as the bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that can damage tooth enamel. Therefore, eating a low-sugar diet can help reduce the risk of cavities. This means avoiding sugary snacks and drinks, such as candy, soda, and sweetened juices.
• Eating foods rich in calcium: Calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones. Eating high-calcium foods, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and almonds, promotes strong teeth and prevents cavities.
• Consuming foods high in fiber: Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help to clean the teeth and promote saliva production. As mentioned above, saliva helps neutralize the acids in the mouth that can cause cavities.
• Avoiding sticky foods: Sticky foods, such as dried fruit and candy, can cling to the teeth and increase the risk of cavities. It’s best to avoid these foods or brush your teeth immediately after eating them.
• Drinking plenty of water: Hydrating yourself throughout the day can help to rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities.

Regular Dentist Visits

Visiting the dentist regularly is also crucial for preventing cavities. During routine dental checkups, your dentist will examine your teeth and look for signs of cavities or other dental problems. They may also perform a professional cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar that has built up on your teeth.

If your dentist finds a cavity, it’s essential to treat it as soon as possible. The earlier a cavity is identified and treated, the less damage it’ll cause. Regular dental checkups can help catch cavities early, saving you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

Stop Cavities in Their Tracks: Know the Signs & Act Fast!

Cavities are a common dental problem that can be identified through various signs and symptoms. These include teeth sensitivity, pain or discomfort when biting or chewing, visible holes or pits in the teeth, and a toothache that lingers.

Treatment options for cavities include dental crowns, root canals, cavity fillings, and emergency cavity fillings for immediate relief of pain or discomfort. Prevention is critical to avoiding cavities, and it involves regular brushing and flossing, eating a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly.

Pay attention to the signs and symptoms of cavities, as they can lead to more serious dental problems if left untreated. If you suspect you have a cavity, our skilled and welcoming team at Arkansas Family Dental is ready to help. Book your appointment today to keep your teeth healthy and strong for years to come!

Download our free infographic to learn more about good dental hygiene and preventive dental care.