Part of maintaining good oral health is knowing when it’s time to call your dentist, and a developing cavity is one of those moments. This tooth decay is easily treatable with an early diagnosis, so it’s important to know how to recognize the signs of a developing problem. Pinpoint the issue using these identifying factors to avoid more serious consequences down the road.

How to Know When to Call a Dentist

1. Sudden Toothaches

Sharp and sudden tooth pain is the most obvious sign of a cavity. Once decay breaks through your enamel, it makes its way down towards the pulp of your tooth. The living cells and nerves around this area are easily irritated by harmful bacteria and plaque that can cause rapid pain around the area. Toothaches can also happen when you apply pressure to the inflamed area by biting down on food.

2. Bad Breath

More severe cavities can also cause halitosis or bad breath. This is a result of bacteria buildup in your tooth’s decaying pocket. The more bacteria that accumulates in a cavity, the harder it is to keep your mouth fresh and clean.

3. Food & Drink Sensitivity

You might also have a cavity if you feel pain after eating certain types of food. Enamel erosion exposes the inner layers of your tooth, particularly the dentin and roots.

The nerves in these areas are more sensitive to temperature changes and fermentable carbohydrates that are produced by sweet and acidic food and drink. These factors, combined with bacteria that clings to your teeth, generates acid that will irritate your tooth’s nerves.

4. Surface Stains

Staining is a common result of age, regular wine or coffee intake, and tobacco use, but decay can also leave discolored spots on your teeth. These stains occur as your dentin is exposed from enamel wear. While stains can first appear white on the surface, they can eventually change to a yellow, brown, or black color as the decay becomes more advanced.

Count on the team at William B. Collier Jr., DMD in Enterprise, AL, to deliver top-notch oral care with a smile. Dr. Collier has been practicing dentistry since 1967 and specializes in preventive, pediatric, and cosmetic services that are personalized to each patient’s specific needs. This dentist’s office also offers oral cancer screenings and orthodontics referrals. To schedule a check-up, visit their website or call (334) 347-5026.