Believe it or not, 92% of adults between the ages of 20-64 have had tooth decay. In fact, dental cavities are the most chronic disease in the world! Mostly due to the sugar intake of many people.
If one of your teeth hurts, you may need to see a dentist before it gets worse. Click here to learn how to tell if you have a cavity, and what to do about it.
How to Tell if You Have a Cavity
A cavity in your tooth occurs when bacteria and acid wear down the surface or enamel of your tooth. This eventually creates a hole in your tooth, also known as a cavity. Bacteria can also wear down the inner layer of your tooth, known as dentin.
Sometimes you can tell you have a cavity if you see a dark spot on your tooth. However, this doesn’t always indicate a cavity. Some dark spots may just be stains caused by food or drinks on your teeth.
Other times, you may not see a spot even though there is a cavity present. Spots can be caused by some medications or even be a sign of injury. If you suspect you may have a cavity, its best to visit your dentist for a thorough exam.
What About Tooth Pain?
If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity on a tooth, it’s possible that this is caused by a cavity. If your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures then this could be a sign of a cavity that has reached the inner layer, or dentin, of your tooth.
It’s important to get any tooth pain checked by a dentist since it could lead to more serious infections or tooth loss. The sooner your dentist can address a cavity, the more likely it will be easier to treat.
Your dentist will look for soft spots on your teeth to find cavities. He or she will also take x-rays to pinpoint cavities that you can’t see or feel.
How Can I Prevent Cavities?
Cavities are formed from foods like candy, fruit, cake, bread, and other carbohydrates that stay on your teeth. The bacteria in your mouth break them down and turns them into acid.
Together these combine with your saliva to form plaque that clings to your teeth. It then slowly dissolves your tooth’s enamel. That’s why it’s important to avoid high-carb or sugary drinks and foods.
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can also help to prevent cavities by removing plaque that is stuck to your teeth. Genetics and your age can also affect your likelihood of getting cavities. Fillings and gum disease can cause bacteria to get trapped in teeth and cause cavities as well.
Don’t Wait! Call Your Dentist
We hope this article has helped to explain: how to tell if you have a cavity. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know for certain if you have a cavity unless you visit your dentist. You don’t want to wait to get help!
Once your tooth has a cavity it will only get worse over time. The longer you wait, the more damage is done. If you need to find a dentist ASAP, then check out our site to find the best dentist near you!