92% of adults have had a cavity in their adult teeth. Most people have more than one cavity in their lifetime.
Often, you may not notice that you have a cavity unless your dentist tells you that you do during a routine visit. However, there are a few signs of cavities you may experience before your next dental appointment.
If you have any of the symptoms listed below, you don’t need to make an emergency appointment unless the pain is unbearable. If the pain is manageable with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, then you should schedule a visit with your dentist as soon as possible.
Read on for some of the signs that you have a cavity.
1. Sensitivity to Heat and Cold
If you find that a certain tooth is sensitive to heat or cold, you may have a cavity. You’ll usually notice this when you’re brushing your teeth with cold water, when you eat cold foods such as ice cream, or when you eat hot foods. Your teeth shouldn’t feel sensitive to these foods, so this is a sign you’ve got a cavity and will need a filling. Curious about the different types of fillings? Click here to learn more about them. And if you currently don’t have a dentist and require a recommendation for one, you can rid sensitive teeth or get dental implants in orleans. You will be able to enjoy all of your favourite foods after resolving this issue.
2. One of the Most Prevalent Signs of Cavities: Tooth Pain
If you have pain in your tooth, this is one of the most common signs that you have a cavity. Any pain or discomfort usually signals that there is something wrong with the tooth. If the pain is unbearable, this is often more serious and will require more invasive dental work. However, a tooth that is sensitive or causes you discomfort can be a tooth with a cavity.
3. Bad Breath
Bad breath can actually be a sign of a cavity. This is caused when too much bacteria has built up in your mouth and, thus, the unpleasant smell. While your cavity will have needed to progress quite a bit to be pungent enough to cause bad breath, it is something to take note of. This is especially the case if you have bad breath along with other common symptoms of cavities.
4. Discolored Tooth
Is one of your teeth discolored in a particular spot? If so, this is a cavity. The discoloration can be seen in the mirror or by a loved one and is black or brown.
Getting Your Cavity Filled
We’ve listed four of the most common signs of cavities above, and they should be taken as signs to call your dentist if you are experiencing them. It is also important that you visit your dentist regularly so that they can catch cavities before they develop into something more serious that requires even more dental work.
If you’re a parent, pay attention to the warning signs that your child may have a cavity. For more on all things health, technology and business, be sure to browse the rest of our site.