Telltale Signs that Your Tooth has a Cavity

The doctor and our Arbor View Dental Group team frequently get questions about cavity causes and prevention. You brush twice a day and floss regularly. You rinse with mouthwash, just like the dentist recommended. You can’t remember the last time you had a cavity, but you think it was when you were a little kid. In all seriousness, you thought only kids got cavities.

The Signs and Symptoms of a Cavity

It’s believed that roughly 90% of North Americans will get at least one cavity in their lifetime. Those other ten percent, it seems, can eat as much pie, cake, sugary cereals, and sweets as they want. That’s not true; just a stab at dental humor, and it was as bad as the pain your cavity is probably giving you.

When a cavity is in its initial stages, you will often be symptom-free. Only when the decay progresses will you notice signs like toothaches or sensitivity. But there are lesser-known warning signs, too. Ask about dental sealants if you experience these symptoms and consider a dental appointment. These preventive treatments can shield your teeth from decay, especially in hard-to-reach grooves. Early intervention is key for optimal oral health!

• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• When you bite down, there is a sticky, tarry feeling
• Pus or discharge around a tooth
• A visible discoloring, usually black or brown
• Small pits or holes in the tooth

Routine dental care is important. While good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular cleanings will deter the formation of cavities, they do not constitute a foolproof practice. A cavity can occur at any time, no matter what your age. Bacteria cause tooth decay, and no brushing, flossing, or rinsing will eradicate all the bacteria from your mouth. If you think you may have a cavity, please contact our Roseville dentist office immediately.