8 Signs That You Have a Tooth Cavity

Welcome, Cerritos dental patients! In this blog post, we will be going over 8 signs that you may have a tooth cavity. It is important to be aware of any possible cavity indicators in order to get the proper dental care needed. Read on to learn more!

What Is a Tooth Cavity?

Before we get into the signs, let’s clarify what a tooth cavity is. A tooth cavity, aka dental caries, is a hole in your tooth caused by bacteria and the acid the bacteria secrete. Over time, the acid wears down the tooth’s enamel, creating a cavity.

What Are the Signs You May Have a Cavity in Your Tooth?

Dental cavities can sometimes sneak up on us. Here are some signs that you may potentially have a tooth cavity forming or already active:

Sign #1 – Tooth Sensitivity

Are your teeth overly sensitive when you eat something cold, hot, sweet, or acidic? If so, this could be a sign of a cavity.

Sign #2 – Visible Holes or Cracks

If you notice visible holes or cracks in your teeth, this could be a sign of a cavity. It’s important to get these looked at as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Sign #3 – Tooth Discoloration

Are you noticing your teeth are yellowing or turning brown in certain spots? This could be another sign that you may have a cavity.

Sign #4 – Bad Breath

Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be an indication of a tooth cavity.

Sign #5 – Pain

If you begin to experience pain in your mouth, especially when eating or drinking something sweet or hot, this could be a sign of a cavity.

Sign #6 – Swelling

Swollen gums or other areas of your mouth can be a sign of a cavity.

Sign #7 – Food Getting Stuck

If food is getting stuck in between your teeth, this could also be a sign of a cavity in Cerritos.

Sign #8 – Loose Teeth

Loose teeth can also be a sign of a cavity, especially if it is accompanied by pain.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is a common problem and a major cause of tooth loss in adults. It is caused by the destruction of the hard outer layer of the tooth, called enamel, by acids produced by bacteria in plaque. When the bacteria in plaque consume sugar (that we provide it from food and drinks we eat and drink), they produce acids that can dissolve the enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities, or holes in the teeth.

What Are the Stages of Tooth Decay?

As a Cerritos dental patient, you may be wondering what are the stages of tooth decay. The stages of tooth decay can vary depending on the extent of the damage done to the enamel. Generally, there are five stages of tooth decay:

1. Demineralization: This is the first stage of decay, when the acid begins to dissolve the enamel. At this stage, the enamel may not appear to be damaged, but it is weakened and vulnerable to further damage.

2. White Spot Lesions: As the enamel continues to break down, white spots may form on the surface of the teeth.

3. Cavities: As the acid continues to break down the enamel, cavities may form. These are holes in the teeth that can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

4. Root Caries: This is the most advanced stage of decay and is caused by acid attacking the dentin and root of the tooth.

5. Abscess: An abscess is an infection caused by an accumulation of pus in the tissue around the tooth. It can cause severe pain, fever, swelling, and other serious symptoms.

It’s important to understand the stages of tooth decay and to visit us at Dentist of Cerritos regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Doing so will help you prevent and catch tooth decay early, which will help avoid more serious problems and costly treatments later.

What Happens If You Delay Treating a Cavity?

It’s important to stay on top of your oral health, as it’s essential to your overall wellbeing. One of the most common issues that can arise is cavities – and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious problems. So, what happens if you delay treating a cavity?

If cavities are left untreated, further decay can spread and cause even more damage.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, then it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can. This is especially true if you’re noticing any discoloration or holes in your teeth, as these are indicators of advanced decay. When you come in for an appointment, your Cerritos dentist will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

It’s important to note that cavities can’t heal on their own, and delaying treatment can lead to more extensive damage that may require a root canal or other more invasive treatments. Additionally, cavities can extend below the gum line, which can lead to infection or even the loss of the affected tooth.

We know that it can be intimidating to come in for an appointment, but we want to assure you that our staff is committed to making every visit as comfortable as possible. We also offer a variety of sedation options to make sure you’re relaxed and comfortable during your Cerritos cavity treatment.

Do You Think You Might Have a Cavity in Cerritos?

We hope that this blog was helpful in learning the signs of a tooth cavity. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is important to contact your Cerritos dentist immediately to get the proper care. If you’re experiencing any tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t wait – make an appointment with us at Dentist of Cerritos today. It’s the best way to ensure that your oral health stays in great shape.

If you have any questions about tooth decay, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful!

Do You Have Signs of a Cavity in Cerritos?

Dentist of Cerritos can treat your cavity and restore your smile. Contact us today at (562) 414-5064 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!