The health of your teeth is the key to your overall health. Preventing cavities is one of the most important ways to keep your teeth in good condition and avoid further complications. Untreated cavities can destroy your teeth and eventually cause more serious problems. That’s why it’s helpful to recognize the signs of a cavity and see your dentist as soon as possible if you think you have one.
Here is a guide that will explain in detail the 4 signs indicating the presence of a dental cavity.
What is a dental cavity?
A dental cavity refers to the attack on the tooth by acids produced by the bacteria in dental plaque that accumulates on the teeth. At the beginning of cavity formation, the acid causes decalcification and breakdown of the tooth’s various structures by demineralizing it, starting with the dental enamel. The dentist can immediately detect this decalcification by observing discoloration and fragility of the enamel on a tooth. To do this, they will perform a clinical examination using an instrument called an explorer. This is possible if the cavity is located on a visible part of the tooth crown. Additionally, you may have X-rays taken to detect cavities between teeth if the cavity is not yet advanced.
Causes of dental cavities
Dental plaque
One of the main causes of dental cavities is the bacterial flora. Indeed, the bacteria in dental plaque produce acids from the sugary foods we consume, which then damage the teeth. Moreover, tartar causes gingivitis, which promotes the development of cavities.
Oral health problems
Many people have an environment favorable to cavity formation. For example, a defect in enamel that is poorly mineralized can be a source of problems. Misaligned teeth can also cause issues because they are harder to brush properly, leading to plaque buildup.
Diet
A diet that is too sugary can cause dental cavities. Indeed, these foods are transformed by germs in the mouth into acids that attack the teeth. Snacking is also harmful because it prevents saliva from renewing and naturally cleaning the teeth.
Lack of fluoride and vitamin D
Fluoride and vitamin D are essential for oral health. They play a major role in the mineralization and strength of bones and therefore teeth. A deficiency in these elements can severely weaken them. Supplementing fluoride in water containing < 1 ppm will reduce the incidence of dental cavities.
Signs of a dental cavity
1) Tooth sensitivity related to food
Sensitivity to hot and coldTooth sensitivity after eating hot or cold foods is a sign that you may have a cavity. Indeed, when your tooth enamel begins to wear down, it can affect the dentin, which is the hard tissue layer beneath the enamel. Dentin contains many tiny microscopic hollow tubes. When there isn’t enough enamel to protect the dentin, hot, cold, sticky, or acidic foods can stimulate the cells and nerves inside your tooth. This causes the sensitivity you feel in your teeth.
Persistent sensitivity to sweets
Although sensitivity to hot and cold is the most common when you have a cavity, sensitivity to candy and sugary drinks can also indicate a dental cavity. Similar to temperature sensitivity, persistent discomfort from sweets is often the result of enamel damage and, more specifically, the beginning of a cavity. The explanation is simple: bacteria in your mouth digest the foods you eat and feed on sugar. They then produce acids capable of dissolving tooth enamel and causing cavities.
You should take this tooth sensitivity into account by brushing your teeth with an appropriate toothbrush. Generally, it is recommended to use the Y-Brush toothbrush. It is a toothbrush that offers several sonic vibration modes and brushing times. The vibration mode chosen will depend on your tooth sensitivity.
2) Tooth pain
Persistent pain in one or more of your teeth can indicate a cavity. In fact, pain is one of the most common symptoms of a cavity. Sometimes this pain can occur suddenly or after eating something. This includes pain and discomfort in or around your mouth. You may also feel pain and pressure when biting food. This pain is often short-lived but can be quite intense. It increases as the cavity progresses toward the dental pulp.
3) Your tooth no longer looks the same
A spot on your tooth
Spots on teeth can be almost any color. This includes brown, yellow, black, or even colors like orange, purple, or red. The color of the spot depends on what caused it initially. For example, brown spots occur due to smoking or chewing tobacco. Red or purple spots are caused by wine or certain foods. Some types of bacteria on the tooth surface make orange spots visible. In the case of white spots, excess fluoride is the cause.
A hole in your tooth
Some holes, especially those between your teeth or in crevices, cannot be seen or felt. But you may still feel pain or sensitivity in the cavity area. If you notice a hole or pit in your tooth, make an appointment with your dentist. This is a clear sign that you have a dental cavity. Usually, it appears after the discovery of a white spot on your tooth that has worsened. You will feel it when you run your tongue over the surface of your teeth. It will be particularly painful.
We hope this guide has helped you understand all the signs indicating the presence of a cavity. However, the best solution to be sure is to see a dentist. Indeed, this is what you should do if you have concerns about a possible cavity. Additionally, seeing your dentist regularly—every 6 months—and having regular X-rays is one of the best ways to prevent cavities or stop existing cavities from progressing.
