You’ve probably known about cavities since you were a very small child, and at this point in your life, you may have already had a few. Despite what your parents might have told you, knowing whether or not you have a cavity is much harder than most people think. It’s never as obvious as those posters you likely remember from the dentist’s office!
However, if you’re worried about a tooth, there are a few telltale signs to look out for. If you notice any of the following, then planning a trip to the dentist would be wise.
Discoloration
This might seem like it’s hard to miss, but because you at least glance at your teeth every day, it can be easy to overlook a small brown spot that has developed (especially if it’s in between or on the back of a tooth).
If a tooth is stained due to food, then all of the enamel will be affected. But with a cavity, the change will look more like a darkened spot that stands out from the rest of the enamel.
New/Prolonged Sensitivity
Millions of people have sensitive teeth, and it’s not a big deal. Often, just using a sensitive tooth toothpaste is all that’s needed to avoid a twinge of discomfort when eating or drinking something hot or cold.
Sensitivity might point to a cavity if you’re experiencing it in teeth that previously weren’t sensitive or if the pain lingers for 10 seconds or longer.
This indicates that something has changed in your mouth, and the potential issue goes beyond the surface level of your teeth unlike regular sensitivity.
Toothache
This is the symptom you’ve probably been warned about the most. If a tooth starts hurting and doesn’t stop, then your next call should be to your dentist. Don’t ignore it even if it’s just minor pain!
Dental problems rarely get better on their own. In most cases, waiting will only allow the cavity (and accompanying toothache) to become much worse.
When a cavity is caught early, it can typically be repaired in a single appointment with a tooth-colored filling, meaning the restoration will seamlessly blend with your other teeth.
It’s also important to note that some cavities (especially those in the back teeth) can be extremely hard to notice, which is why it’s smart to keep up with your semi-annual dental appointments. This gives your dentist a chance to find hidden cavities and treat them before you experience any of the unpleasant symptoms above.
About the Author
Dr. Krysten Jackson and Dr. Eric Parsons are husband-and-wife restorative dentists who graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Dr. Jackson completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency there, and Dr. Parsons is constantly training to use the latest technology to deliver the most comfortable and effective treatment possible.
If you think that you or your child might be dealing with a cavity, you can schedule an appointment at El Reno Family Dentistry by clicking here.