Signs You Have A Cavity

Cavities are one of the most common types of dental problems. They are simply tooth decay in its early stages. The good news is that if you catch a cavity early enough and get it filled by a dentist, you can avoid further decay of the tooth. Ignoring or not noticing a cavity can eventually lead to so much decay that you would have to have the tooth pulled or that it would, quite literally, rot out of your mouth! Obviously, no one wants decaying teeth. Not only is tooth decay unsightly, but it can also lead to health problems. For that reason, it is important to know the signs of a cavity and to visit a dentist if you present any of them.

A Toothache

One of the earliest signs of tooth decay or a cavity is pain in the tooth. Most people describe this pain as throbbing. Usually, it is a deep pain that is strong for a few minutes and then subsides, only to come back.

If you notice recurrent tooth pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Tooth pain can be caused by other dental conditions, but no matter what the cause, it's important to identify and eliminate the reason for your discomfort.

Tooth Sensitivity

In addition to the deep, throbbing pain described above, cavities may also cause tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can affect your teeth at any time, but it's especially noticeable when you eat foods that are very hot, very cold, or very sweet. It can be tempting to get rid of sensitivity by using special toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth.

However, if the sensitivity is caused by decay, you're merely treating the symptom, not the actual problem. Even if you can get your pain to go away on your own, your tooth would still be decaying, so it's important to see a dentist when sensitivity occurs.

Pitted Teeth

A cavity is simply a hole in the tooth surface. Sometimes, when cavities are especially large, you can actually see them! If you have experienced pain or sensitivity on a particular tooth, grab a mirror and take a look inside your mouth.

Sometimes, you can actually see a pit or hole in the tooth. You may also be able to feel the hole with your tongue. If you can, that is a cavity, and you'll want to waste no time in getting it filled.

In addition to being on the lookout for these symptoms, you should be visiting a dentist, like those represented at http://www.nwidentist.com/, for regular checkups. That, combined with knowing these symptoms, can significantly reduce your risk of advanced tooth decay.