Most people are unaware of the initial signs of a cavity since these indicators often overlap with other oral health maladies. Cavities are one of the nation's leading health problems. The rise in cavity prevalence is partially due to the fact that food and beverage manufacturers are loading up all sorts of different products with sugar.
While you might not feel pain when the cavity initially forms, you will notice some symptoms sooner or later.
If you notice brown, black or other dark stains on your teeth, you might have a cavity. However, such markings are perfectly natural following the consumption of dark-hued foods like candy, cookies, brownies, etc. If the stains remain long after you consume such foods and clean your teeth, there is a good chance that the stain is a cavity.
One or Several Holes in Your Teeth
In some cases, a visible hole in the tooth is a sign of a cavity. Such a hole can form as a result of the decay.
Severe or even mild tooth sensitivity can be an indication of a cavity. Such sensitivity typically occurs when consuming particularly cold or hot foods/beverages. Some especially sweet beverages and foods can also cause this sensitivity. Do not assume mild sensitivity is nothing to worry about.
Even minimal sensitivity might be a subtle sign of a cavity. Such sensitivity is the result of the cavity compromising the nerve within the tooth. The close proximity of the cavity to the nerve makes alterations in temperature that much more noticeable.
If your teeth are healthy, they will have a layer of enamel that is perfectly clear. However, chalky spots are a sign of trouble. If you notice opaque or chalky spots on your tooth, it is lacking in minerals. In particular, the enamel has insufficient calcium.
Food particles can lodge between cavities and cause bad breath. If you notice your breath smells worse than normal and it does not go away, then a cavity may be the cause.
The decay caused by dental cavities can also create a nasty taste in your mouth. If you notice a bad taste that lingers even after you enjoy food, beverages, cigarettes or anything else, you might have a cavity.
Even a small amount of visible blood during brushing is an indication that a cavity might be present. Cavities can spur bleeding during the brushing process as the damaged nerve will cause gum irritation. If the bleeding continues across posterity, there is a good chance the cavity is particularly deep.
Especially large cavities along the gum line have the potential to trap food and create issues with the gums. In particular, swelling in certain portions of the gums will likely occur. This swelling might not be painful yet it will certainly be visible. As noted above, it is even possible for blood to emerge from a tooth plagued by a massive cavity.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Greene Dental Associates, request an appointment in our Fairborn dental office here: https://www.greenedentalassociates.com. Or call us at (937) 426-2400.
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