What Are the Initial Signs of a Cavity?

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.