Watch Out for These Signs of a Cavity

Signs of a cavity, such as sensitivity in your teeth or even outright pain, indicate that it's time to get your teeth professionally checked. Learn which signs to watch out for and why maintaining regular dental visits and practicing preventive care is key for your health — and wallet!

Statistically, if you haven't already, you're likely going to have to deal with a cavity at some point. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while cavities are preventable, 9 out of 10 adults over age 20 have some degree of tooth decay.

Cavities are decayed areas (tiny areas or holes) in your teeth that result from bacteria buildup and harmful acids in the mouth. Unfortunately, they are permanent, according to the Mayo Clinic. They can also go undetected at first, as early-stage decay may not produce any symptoms.

Luckily, cavities are treatable, and catching one early is good for not only your health and comfort but for your pocketbook, too. If your dentist is able to detect and treat your cavity before it progresses too far, you can avoid more complicated and costly treatments.

As the Mayo Clinic outlines, there are three types of cavities:

• Smooth surface cavities that form on the sides of your teeth
• Root cavities that develop on the roots of your teeth
• Pit and fissure cavities that occur on the chewing surfaces of teeth

The ADA states that it's common for people over age 50 to have some tooth-root decay. In addition, there is also a high prevalence of cavities among children.

Though it's common for people to feel some amount of pain from a cavity, other visual and sensory factors can also help you determine if a cavity has begun to form. Common symptoms of decay, according to the Mayo Clinic, may include:

• Discoloration on your tooth that is black, brown or white
• Unpleasant sensations, such as a sharp pain, twinges or a dull toothache
• Pain when biting down or eating
• A hole in the tooth, even if it doesn't have any discoloration or cause pain
• Tooth sensitivity to heat or cold

Even before you suspect that you have a cavity, you'll want to maintain regular dental visits every six months. Your dental professional (dentist and dental hygienist) not only cleans your mouth, but monitors any oral problems that can occur, from tooth decay to screening for oral cancer, notes the Cleveland Clinic.

If you do have a cavity, you cannot treat the condition on your own, and putting it off will cause the decay to worsen. The earlier you see your dentist, the more likely it is that they can catch a cavity in an early stage, which may be easier and less costly to treat. Your dentist is your partner in oral care, so make an appointment with them as soon as possible for an assessment if you believe you have cavity symptoms.

The Mayo Clinic explains that to treat a cavity, your dentist will assess your mouth, pain level and possibly take X-rays. Early-stage cavities may be fixed with a simple fluoride treatment. However, more invasive treatments are likely if the cavity has progressed. Your dentist may need to treat your cavity with a filling, crown or even a root canal or extraction if the decay has advanced.

Being proactive and catching a cavity early is the best way to stop the decay from worsening — and a timely appointment with your dentist can make all the difference.

What are the common signs of a cavity?

The most common symptoms of a cavity include hot and cold sensitivity, toothache, and sensitivity to sweets. You may also see staining on your tooth, and it may feel sticky when you bite down. If you see a hole or pit in your tooth, then this is a fairly good indicator you have a cavity. 

Is tooth sensitivity always a sign of a cavity?

No. Tooth sensitivity usually occurs when the layer of the tooth beneath the enamel known as the dentin is irritated or exposed. Connected to nerves near the root, the dentin can trigger pain, especially if exposed to extreme temperatures and pressure. This happens when drinking hot or cold beverages or grinding your teeth. Recession of the gums, which can reveal more dentin, can also contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you have persistent sensitivity, schedule a dental checkup.

What should I do if I think I have cavity symptoms?

If you suspect you have cavity symptoms, then visit your dental professional. Cavities need to be addressed before they become more serious. Your dentist can check your teeth for signs of cavities and provide dental x-rays to access if you need a filling. 

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.