Feeling some slight discomfort in your mouth for no reason? It could be a sign of a cavity or tooth decay! Extremely common, cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface, or enamel, of your tooth that develop into tiny holes over time. Typically, this form of tooth decay is caused by a number of factors, from frequent snacking to sugary drinks, improper dental care, bacteria buildup and more. Cavities are one of the most common health problems. In fact, chances are you’ve probably already experienced a cavity or two in your lifetime!
Often times, cavities tend to go unnoticed — either they aren’t presenting symptoms yet, or people feel the symptoms are not severe enough to warrant a visit to the dentist. If you develop a cavity, it is important it is treated early to prevent further damage. Below we’ve rounded up some symptoms of cavities you should look out for.
- A toothache that is either spontaneous or that occurs without cause
- Newfound tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Mild pain when eating or drinking, particularly when the item is sweet, cold, or hot
- Any visible holes in your teeth
- Pain and discomfort when you bite down
- A brown, white, or black stain on your tooth
You aren’t always aware when a cavity is forming — that’s why it is important to schedule regular checkups with your dentist to ensure everything is in tiptop shape! If you feel any pain or discomfort in your mouth at any time or for any reason, it is important you schedule a visit with your dentist right away.
