How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

Most people think they can tell when they have a cavity. After all, the affected tooth will just hurt or, at the very least, cause some discomfort, right? Well, not necessarily. Sometimes you can have a cavity and your teeth may not even feel remotely sensitive. While that may not be a problem if you keep up with your biannual dental appointments, a painless cavity can be dangerous for patients who skip their routine dental visits, allowing their cavities to be left untreated. Untreated cavities can lead to serious infection, tooth loss, and bone loss! To help you avoid such complications, it’s important to know all of the signs that indicate you may have a cavity. In this article, we’ve listed some of the most common signs to look for.

Bad Breath

As noted, sometimes you may not even experience pain. However, you may notice that your breath smells, even after you brush your teeth and floss. This is because bacteria can cause bad breath. If your breath smells, it could mean you have a cavity that has gone untreated for awhile and the tooth is decaying.

Holes or Dark Spots

Typically, cavities are only detectable by a dental professional via dental X-rays and an examination, but very advanced decay can cause discoloration that is visible to the naked eye. It’s a good idea to take a proper look at your teeth from time to time, especially the ones in the back. If you notice large dark spots or holes on a tooth, it may be yet another sign you have a cavity that’s gone untreated for a long time.

Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can also be a sign you’re dealing with a cavity. When eating something chewy or hard, a tooth can crack, especially if it has been severely weakened by decay. If this happens, you should have your teeth examined right away. Cracked and broken teeth can lead to further problems, like sensitivity, pain, and infection.

Consult with Our Expert Team!

If you are experiencing any of these signs, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tran.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Lan Tran, Springhurst Hills Dentistry