An astounding 91% of American adults have cavities. Prompt dental care and treatment are necessary to prevent cavities from developing into more serious oral health issues. But not all cavities are visible by looking at the teeth. To help you determine if you have a cavity, below are a few indicators dental care providers often cite as telltale signs of untreated tooth decay.

How to Tell If You Have a Cavity

1. Pain

A cavity can produce discomfort in the affected tooth, the gum surrounding the tooth, or on the entire side of the mouth. It may be consistent, or it might seem to occur for no reason at all. Typically, a cavity that causes pain has grown large and deep enough to impact the nerve.

2. Bad Breath

The bacteria in a cavity feeds on the tooth and cannot be removed by brushing. This leads to bad breath that no amount of brushing or mouthwash can mask. With the removal of the decay and the filling of the cavity, bacterial levels in the mouth return to normal and bad breath will typically disappear.

3. Sensitivity to Temperature

Decay eats away at the protective enamel coating of the teeth, exposing the more sensitive dentin layers and roots underneath. This exposure makes the area sensitive to hot or cold food. The pain of temperature fluctuations can be intense and throbbing, but it often abates once the climate inside the mouth has returned to normal.

4. Discolored Teeth

The acids in the plaque buildup that causes cavities can discolor the afflicted tooth, too. While you may not see the small holes of a cavity, a discolored tooth is much more noticeable. Deep, brownish stains are a common indicator of the beginnings of a cavity.

If you notice any of these red flags, consult a dentist. The dental care providers at Lowitz & Meier will help. They have been serving the Hamilton County, OH, and Greater Cincinnati areas for over three decades. From exams and X-rays to dental crowns and dentures, they provide the highest quality dental care in a safe and welcoming environment. Call (513) 521-8900 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.