How to Tell if You Have a Cavity
Cavities are a direct result of damage to your tooth through weakening of the enamel. While sweets and poor hygiene are the main causes for cavities, the truth is that milk, bread and even fruit can contribute to tooth decay.
Because children are only just fine-tuning those oral hygiene skills, without routine checkups at a children’s dentist, their cavities may quickly turn into toothaches. As adults age, weakening of the teeth may also lead to toothaches from cavities. Toothaches are not the only signs of a cavity, so here are a few others you can look out for.
Discoloration of the Tooth
There are a number of reasons your teeth may become discolored. Stains may develop from smoking or eating certain foods. Touch the spot after brushing your teeth. If it tends to be sticky, you may have a cavity. You may also want to inspect it for tiny holes or indentations.
Tooth Sensitivity
Because of the weakened enamel, when your tooth begins to decay, you may experience discomfort to hot, cold or sweet foods. There are some toothpaste that are specifically created to reduce teeth sensitivity. If these provide no relief in the prescribed time, then you may have a cavity.
Cracked Tooth
Another sign of weakened enamel is cracking or breaking. This most commonly occurs when eating crunchy foods. Sometimes it is accompanied by sharp pain, which may require an emergency visit to your family dentist at Macon Smiles. Other times, it may not hurt. However, broken and cracked teeth may be sharp and could lead to cuts on your tongue, so the sooner you get it fixed, the better.
Visit Macon Smiles, Your Trusted Macon Family Dentist
If you believe your child may be suffering from cavities, then contact Macon Smiles, your family and pediatric dentist in North Macon. We treat the entire family! . Dr. Shah will take a look and make recommendations to not only fix the current cavity but prevent new ones from developing!