I Think I Might Have a Cavity – How Can I Tell?

If you have a cavity, it’s important to see a dentist in Cleveland Heights, OH, as soon as possible. Cavities can cause a variety of problems, and if they’re not treated by a dentist, they can get worse. The longer you wait to see a dentist, the more likely it is that your cavity will have spread to the delicate pulp inside the tooth, leading to a tooth infection.

If this happens, you may need a root canal procedure. This can all be avoided by seeing a dentist, but first, you need to recognize the signs that you’re having a problem. Here’s what to know about cavities and their symptoms.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a tiny hole in your tooth enamel. Cavities are caused by a combination of poor dental hygiene habits, poor oral health, and consumption of sugary foods and drinks.

You may be at higher risk of a cavity if you snack frequently, have diabetes, suffer from dry mouth, or have recently undergone chemotherapy. Genetics can also play a role in your risk for cavities. If you’re at high risk for cavities, talk to your dentist about what you can do to avoid cavities.

What are the symptoms of a cavity?

If you have a cavity, you may experience very little discomfort. It’s important to pay attention to the little signs that could be an indication that there’s a problem. Watch for:

• Pain in your tooth, intermittently or when you’re drinking or eating
• Sudden sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Bad breath (especially bad breath that continues even after you’ve brushed your teeth)
• A visible hole in your tooth

What should you do if you think you might have a cavity?

If you think you might have a cavity, seeing the dentist for an examination is important. If you do have a cavity, you’ll need a filling to stop the spread of tooth decay. When you get a filling, your dentist will clean out the hole in your tooth and then fill it with a composite or silver amalgam filling.

For a tooth filling in Cleveland Heights, OH, call your dentist at Easton Dental. We can help!