When decay stays neglected, it can erode your tooth further and further. Slowly, a hole appears in your tooth as the decay progresses into a cavity. This is because plaque and bacteria eat away the outer layer of your teeth, reaching the layers underneath and even the dental pulp. But, how to tell if you have a cavity?
There are certain signs and symptoms of cavities that occur. Apart from the hole in your tooth, these symptoms can help you know if you have a cavity. Sometimes, cavities occur in spots that are out of our sight. In that case, our blog will help you know the signs of a cavity.
What Does Cavity Feel Like?
Here are some signs of a cavity you should know:
1. Your Teeth are Sensitive to Hot & Cold Temperatures
Do you experience teeth sensitivity after your teeth come in contact with something hot or cold? Chances are, you have a cavity. When you miss the signs of tooth decay, it progresses and reaches the dentin layer, which is the layer below the enamel. There are multiple little hollow tubes present in dentin. So when you have something hot or cold, it stimulates the cells and nerves inside your tooth, creating sensitivity.
2. You Feel a Lingering Sensitivity After Consuming Something Sweet
Since the cavity exposes your dentin layer, it makes the teeth sensitive to sugary foods and beverages as well. Hence, if you experience a lingering sensitivity to sweets, it could indicate that you have tooth decay. Just like temperature sensitivity, sugar sensitivity is also among the signs of a cavity. Sugar sensitivity usually hints at the start of a cavity. If you experience this, it is best to visit a dentist for immediate treatment.
3. You Have Pain in Your Tooth
If one or more of your teeth are aching, it could be because of a cavity. Pain is the most frequent and common symptom of a cavity. Thus, you might feel a sudden onset of pain, or your tooth might start hurting after eating something. Moreover, you might experience a toothache when biting down. Whether your pain is related to tooth decay or not, you should always consult a dentist for toothaches.
4. Your Tooth Looks Discolored
Tooth discoloration is an obvious sign of a cavity. Initially, the surface of your tooth will have a white spot. As the tooth decay advances, the discoloration will turn yellow, brown, or black. Dental examinations help the dentist catch any early cavities and other dental health issues. So, don’t miss your dental cleaning and examinations!
5. Your Tooth Has a Hole
When the cavity worsens, a hole forms in our tooth. You will be able to feel the hole or pit when you run your tongue over the affected tooth. However, not all holes or pits can be felt. Still, you will experience other signs of a cavity. This is a clear cavity symptom; visit your dentist right away for prompt treatment.
What’s Next?
You can tell you have a cavity by noticing the signs and symptoms. Pain, sensitivity, visible hole and pits, and discoloration indicate that you have a cavity. For further assessment and treatment, visit a dentist. Usually, they will recommend a dental filling to treat the cavity.
Lake Elsinore Dentistry has the best dental specialists who can cater to your needs. Strengthen your teeth today by visiting us at 31581 Canyon Estates Dr #201,
Lake Elsinore, CA 92532. You can also call us at (951) 579-1010 to book an appointment.