Your teeth are like precious gems embedded in the treasure of your smile. However, just like any treasure, they need protection and care. One of the most common threats to your dental treasure is cavities. Cavities surprisingly appear and can cause discomfort and damage if left unchecked.
But fear not! You can keep your smile sparkling bright by identifying early signs of a cavity.
So, what exactly is a cavity? A cavity is a tiny hole in your tooth formed when bacteria mix with food particles in your mouth and saliva to create a sticky film called plaque. This plaque sticks to your teeth, and if not cleaned thoroughly, it starts eating the tooth enamel.
Let Us Now Go Over The Symptoms That Point To A Persistent Cavity In Your Mouth
1. Toothache
One of the most common signs of a cavity is a persistent toothache. It might start as a mild discomfort and progress to a sharp or throbbing pain, especially when you bite down on something. If you notice any unexpected signs of tooth decay, it’s time to see your dentist.
2. Sensitivity to Temperature
Do you experience pain when you sip hot coffee or swoop a scoop of ice cream? Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages could be a cavity sign. This sensitivity occurs because the protective enamel layer of your tooth has started to get compromised, exposing the sensitive inner layers to temperature changes.
3. Visible Tooth Pits
Sometimes, you can see a cavity with the naked eye. If you notice any small holes, pits, or dark spots on the surface of your teeth, decay has likely been initiated. These visible signs should prompt you to schedule dental check-ups near you as soon as possible.
4. Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath, despite regular brushing and flossing, can indicate the presence of cavities. The bacteria that cause cavities release unpleasant-smelling gases, leading to foul breath. If your breath lingers with an unpleasant odour, it might be time for a dental check-up.
5. Pain While Eating
If you experience pain or discomfort while eating, especially when chewing on sugary or sticky foods, it could be one of the highlighting cavity symptoms. The pressure applied to the tooth while chewing exacerbates the pain caused by the cavity.
6. Dark Spots on Teeth
Keep an eye out for any discoloration or dark spots on your teeth. These spots can indicate areas of decay where bacteria have begun to eat away at the enamel. Regularly inspecting your teeth in the mirror can help you catch cavities early. Alternatively, you can go for periodic teeth cleaning in Calgary and stop cavities from developing in the first place.
7. Prolonged Sensitivity to Sweet Foods
While it’s normal to experience temporary sensitivity after consuming something sweet, prolonged sensitivity could signal a cavity. If your tooth continues to ache after removing the sugary stimulus, it’s time to seek dental care.
8. Swelling Around the Tooth
In the advanced stages of cavity development, you may notice swelling or inflammation around the affected tooth. It occurs as the infection spreads to the surrounding gum tissue. If you experience any swelling, it’s crucial to see your dentist near you immediately.
Final Words
Remember, early detection is essential to prevent further damage from cavities. By staying vigilant for these signs and visiting your dentist in SE Calgary regularly for check-ups, you can maintain a healthy and radiant smile for years to come.
Don’t wait until a cavity becomes a major dental issue—take action at the first sign of trouble and keep your teeth shining bright! Inglewood Family Dental provides early cavity detection and timely treatment, ensuring your dental health remains in top condition.
Don’t delay; schedule your check-up today!