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.
Here is a look at the initial signs of a cavity.
Tooth Stains
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.
A Highly-sensitive Tooth
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.
Chalky Spotting
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.
Bad Breath
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.
A Foul Taste
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.
Bleeding During Brushing
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.
Gum Issues
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 Emerson Dental Associates, request an appointment in our Emerson dental office here: https://www.emersondental.com. Or call us at (201) 620-9998.
Keep your smile shining bright with oral hygiene basics and regular checkups at our dental office.Taking care of your teeth requires more than receiving a dental cleaning at least once every six months. It is crucial to keep regular oral hygiene routines at home with brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Along…
Flossing before brushing will help keep the space between teeth clean and prevent plaque buildup.When it comes to cleaning the teeth, most people may not realize that there is an order you need to follow. In fact, many people aren't aware of the crucial oral hygiene basics that can help your teeth remain healthy. While…
If you truly value your physical appearance, it is very important that you take good care of your teeth, always. Even though this is easy to say, it takes a lifetime of consistent care for you to achieve healthy teeth. Yes, it could be that you were born with a naturally beautiful set of teeth.…
Routine dental flossing eradicates plaque and helps prevent the accumulation of plaque, which results in tartar. The process itself can give your teeth a brighter appearance through the elimination of plaque, debris, and excess food bits that are not visible in the mirror or located in places that your toothbrush cannot reach.Dental flossing is essential…
Dentures and partial dentures require denture repair as needed, depending on the stage of your oral health, including any damage or wear that has occurred to the denture over time. If you notice that they are worn out or cracked, it's time to head to the dentist and get them fixed up so that you…
A successful smile makeover can transform how you look and address lingering issues that you may be self-conscious about. Whether you do not like the shade of your teeth or think that the gaps between your teeth are too large, cosmetic dentistry can offer smile makeover services tailored to your goals.Since smile makeovers are unique…