As annoying as they are, cavities are a very common phenomenon. So much so that the American Dental Association (ADA) has reported that 92% of American adults are prone to developing a cavity.
But despite this frequent occurrence, as long as you can detect a cavity in its early stages, there is a high chance you can reverse the process. So, if you’re wondering about all the different ways to tell if you have a cavity, keep on reading this blog.
How To Tell If You Have A Cavity
Usually, people only take notice of a cavity when it’s too late. Once your tooth has advanced to a deeper, darker color, the bacteria eating the tooth have already done enough damage. This, in turn, leaves behind only two possible outcomes: getting a root canal or a dental filling.
But what if you could identify a cavity before it’s too late? Here are a few signs you should constantly look for to catch a cavity in its initial stage and put a stop to it once and for all.
Sensitivity To Temperature
Tooth sensitivity is often linked to dental diseases. If you constantly find yourself wincing from the pain of eating something too hot or cold, perhaps it’s a sign that a cavity is taking root.
Tooth Pain After Eating Sweets
Everyone loves candy. Be it chocolate, Twizzlers, or lollipops; there’s something about the sweetness that lifts your spirits. However, experiencing tooth pain after eating something sugary is a contradictory feeling. It can also be an indication that your tooth is ridden with bacteria.
Stains On Teeth
Tooth discoloration is one of the most prominent signs of a cavity. In order to spot it, pay close attention to your pearly whites. If the outer layer of the tooth starts to turn yellow, then you know it’s time to step up your oral care routine.
Dent Inside A Tooth
Sometimes you can also identify a cavity by running your tongue across the grooves of your teeth. This way, if there are any dents or holes in your tooth, you can easily find out and get it checked.
Random Bursts Of Toothache
Almost everyone has sat through a sudden pang of tooth pain. But it’s when these random bursts start to become too frequent that can turn into a problem. For instance, if every small activity leaves you cringing in pain, perhaps it’s due to an unresolved cavity.
Swollen Gums
You can catch the signs early on if you have sensitive gums since a cavity consists of harmful bacteria. Your gums react to this by swelling up from the inflammation, letting you know something is wrong.
Foul Taste In Your Mouth
Whenever there is a bad taste in your mouth, it’s automatically an indicator that your oral health has been compromised. This can further point to tooth decay or gum disease, so it’s best to visit your dentist as soon as possible for a dental evaluation.
What’s Next?
Once you take notice of a cavity, do not wait. Give your dentist a visit as soon as you can to get it checked out. Chances are, if the cavity hasn’t caused much damage, your dentist might be able to press rewind on the whole process. With careful monitoring, fluoride treatments, and a new oral hygiene routine, you’ll be back to bacteria-free teeth in no time!
So, what are you waiting for? If you have any suspicions, call Texas Premier Dental today at (281) 206-0100. You can also drop by our clinic at 13203 Fry Rd Ste 500, Cypress, TX 77433, located right next to Texas Children’s Pediatrics.