Tooth decay is one of the most common disorders known to man right behind the common cold. Though cavities are more prevalent among young children, every age group is affected by cavities, and many of us will likely experience tooth decay at some point in our lives.
One of the most common questions that I receive is “How can I tell if I have a cavity?”. Well, there are ways that your body will tell you that you may have a cavity before you come in to see me, but a visit to your dentist is the surest way to determine if you have tooth decay. Regular dental visits will help you receive the knowledge to prevent cavities from forming, and visiting sooner rather than later will decrease the likelihood of extensive dental work once you do make a visit.
Here are some symptoms of cavities:
- Toothache
- Pain when you bite down on your favorite foods
- Tooth sensitivity
- Experiencing pain when eating or drinking something that is hot, cold, or sweet
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Pus around your tooth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please please come see me as soon a possible! I hope that you have a good idea of symptoms you may experience if you have a cavity. Remember, the best way to prevent cavities is to floss daily, brush your teeth twice daily, swishing wateraround your mouth after meals, and staying away from eating sticky foods that remain on the surface of your teeth long after mealtime.