Cavities are one of the most common tooth problems that people experience. If you’ve never had a cavity, you may not know how to recognize one. When left untreated, cavities can require a root canal or an extraction that may require a crown or a dental implant. They can cause infections and lead to tooth loss. As such, it’s crucial to know the symptoms of a cavity to see when you have one to prevent it from worsening. If you suspect you have a cavity, schedule an appointment with our dedicated New Jersey Dental Team, who can help you improve your oral health. Please continue reading to learn the most common symptoms of a cavity.
What Is a Cavity?
A dental cavity is decay that leads to a hole in the enamel (the outer layer of a tooth) and dentin (the inner structure of the tooth). Cavities are the result of the buildup of plaque on teeth, which is a sticky substance that contains bacteria.
Cavities do not go away on their own and require attention to treat. Ensuring cavities are treated is critical, as failure to do so can lead to the spread of bacteria deeper into the tooth and potentially the bloodstream.
Early Warning Signs You May Have a Cavity
Understanding the warning signs of a cavity is critical to ensuring you can get prompt dental care. Without treatment, you can continue to experience pain, discomfort, and worsening oral health.
Tooth Sensitivity
One of the most common signs of a cavity is sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. This will feel like sharp pain or discomfort.
Discomfort When Chewing or Biting
You may experience pressure, discomfort, or sharp pains when biting as a result of the breakdown of the enamel. In some instances, the tooth pain may radiate when eating, causing pain in your gums, mouth, and jaw.
Visible Changes to the Tooth
As cavities are small holes in the tooth, you may experience visible changes. Generally, this will look like a black or brown pit in the tooth.
Toothache or Lingering Pain
If you experience persistent pain after eating or randomly throughout the day, it can indicate that you may have a cavity.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
As a result of the bacteria causing the cavity, you may experience bad breath or altered taste as a result of the biofilm in your mouth.
Gum Symptoms
You may experience gum irritation near the affected tooth, bleeding, or even swelling. In some instances, a facial lump may form, which should be checked immediately, as this can indicate an infection.
Signs of Advanced Cavities
In some instances, untreated cavities can have more serious symptoms, like:
- Pus
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Fever (indicative of an abscess)
- Tooth fracture or brittleness
What Causes Cavities?
Unfortunately, there are a number of issues that can lead to cavities, though generally, the main cause is when acid and bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel of the tooth.
Plaque Buildup
Plaque is a sticky substance that harbors bacteria. This can form on teeth, and if left for prolonged periods of time, can contribute to the formation of cavities as the bacteria erode enamel.
Frequent Sugars or Carbohydrates
If you often consume sugary foods or those high in carbohydrates, the bacteria in your mouth can convert this into acid, thus breaking down your teeth.
Inadequate Brushing or Flossing
Failure to properly brush or floss your teeth can increase the risk of cavities, as missed plaque can harden into a substance called tartar. This is a calcified deposit that forms on the teeth, ultimately contributing to decay.
Dry Mouth
If you suffer from dry mouth, you may be more prone to cavities. Saliva acts as a natural buffer to acid, and a lack of saliva means your teeth are more susceptible to erosion.
How Dentists Diagnose a Cavity
If you believe you have a cavity, a Basking Ridge dentist can confirm this diagnosis. Generally, to determine if you have a cavity, a dentist will:
- Conduct a visual examination of the teeth to look for pits and dark spots
- Take dental x-rays, which can help locate hidden cavities between teeth or under fillings
- Probe for enamel softness, which can indicate decay
How to Prevent Cavities
Cavities, though common, can be prevented with proper oral care. As such, you should prioritize:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel
- Floss daily
- Reduce consumption of sugary drinks and snacks
- Attend routine dental check-ups twice a year
- Consider sealants to protect molars and prevent decay
When to See a Dentist Immediately
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a dentist immediately for treatment:
- Persistent pain
- Visible hole in the tooth
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Swollen gums or face
- Pus near a tooth
- Sensitivity that worsens over time
- Dark spot or growing stain
- Fever or signs of infection
Contact Our Cavity Care Experts in Basking Ridge, NJ
If you experience any warning signs, such as tooth sensitivity, pain, discomfort, discoloration, or holes in your teeth, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the skilled Dental Associates of Basking Ridge team. We are prepared to help you eliminate cavities to maintain oral health. The sooner you get a cavity checked, the more successful the treatment will be. Contact our experienced dentists to help you today.
