How to Know If You Have Cavities

Did you know that nearly 90% of adults have had a cavity at some point in their lives?

This article is designed to help you identify cavities and learn about treatment options.

Let’s Dive In.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is like a tiny hole in your tooth. It happens when bad bacteria in your mouth make acid that eats away at your tooth enamel.

 If you don’t take care of it, the hole can get bigger and hurt. Catching a cavity early is super important.

It’s like finding a small leak in a roof. If you fix it right away, it’s easy and cheap. But if you wait too long, the leak can get worse and cause a lot more damage.

The same goes for cavities. The sooner you find and fix them, the better off you’ll be.

Common Signs and Symptoms

So, how can you tell if you’re facing a cavity head-on? Keep an eye out for these common signs:

  • Pain and Sensitivity: If your teeth are feeling a bit touchy, especially when you bite down or enjoy a cold drink, it could be a sign of a cavity.
  • Visual Cues: Take a closer look. Cavities often appear as dark spots or pits on your teeth.
  • Bad Breath: A persistent foul odor could be a red flag, especially if it’s coming from a specific tooth.

That little twinge in your tooth might just be a passing fancy or maybe it could be something more sinister?

Other dental issues may have similar signs and symptoms, but if you are experiencing pain, sensitivity, bad breath, or can visually see a dark spot or pit, it’s time to schedule a dental visit.

Getting Rid of Cavities in El Paso

Getting rid of cavities will involve a dental checkup. A dentist can help you determine what’s going on in your mouth and get you the help you need.

Cavities can get worse quickly, so it’s important to find them early. If you catch a cavity early, reach out to Mesa Street Dental for a dental exam.

You might also be interested in other resources related to cavities:

What Does A Cavity Look Like

What Does A Cavity Feel Like

Cavity vs Stain

How to Fix a Cavity

Can Cavities Be Reversed

MEET THE AUTHOR

Dr. Sean Harrell, DDS

Dr. Sean Harrell has been practicing dentistry for 12 years and is the proud owner of Mesa Street Dental! He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2013 from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He is a proud member of the Texas Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the SPEAR Institute, and the El Paso District Dental Society.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Dr. Sean Harrell, DDS

Dr. Sean Harrell has been practicing dentistry for 12 years and is the proud owner of Mesa Street Dental! He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2013 from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He is a proud member of the Texas Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the SPEAR Institute, and the El Paso District Dental Society.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Blog

Can a Cavity Be Reversed? Here’s the Scoop!

Cavity vs. Stain: How to Tell the Difference

How to Fix a Cavity: Everything You Need to Know

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