How to recognize if you have a cavity

Article written byElite Dental Group

Cavities are a common condition that affects many children and adults throughout their lives. Cavities mainly form due to poor oral habits, combined with a diet high in sugar. Early cavity detection can help save a person’s teeth and reduce costly treatments such as crowns and dental implants.

Cavities occur as bacteria grows on a tooth and moves into a tooth’s dentin. Once germs have reached a tooth’s dentin, they eat into the tooth until they reach the tooth’s pulp. From the pulp, bacteria can reach any part of the mouth by attacking the mouth’s tissue.

Here are some simple ways to detect if you have a cavity:

Tooth pain – Tooth pain is the initial sign of a cavity. Often toothache from a cavity can be mild to severe and will come and go until it is treated.

Tooth sensitivity – In some cases, cavities will cause sensitivity when eating or drinking.

Holes in teeth – If you see holes in your teeth, the cavity has progressed, and a filling or root canal will be required to address the infection. At this point, it is best not to wait as the cavity will develop further causing more damage and possibly tooth loss.

Dark spots on teeth – Cavities start as dark spots or discoloration on teeth. These dark spots can be grey, brown, or black.

Bad breath – Bacteria due to a cavity can cause bad breath since cavities increase the level of bacteria in your mouth.

Dr. Andre Eliasian is one of the leading dentists in oral surgery in Glendale CA. His clinic offers several services which include fillings, tooth extractions, and complex oral surgeries. If you are looking for wisdom tooth extraction in Glendale or dental implants in Glendale call for an appointment.