Cavities are one of the most common dental health conditions. Bacteria and sugars from the drinks and foods we intake daily can greatly impact our teeth, making proper dental hygiene essential. Additionally, not brushing or flossing regularly can also lead to cavities. That’s why residents in Carmel, IN, turn to David C. Wood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry for their cavity treatment and general dentistry. Our expert dental team is here for all of your dental concerns. So, if you think you have a cavity, here are some signs that you may be right.
1. Sensitivity to Hot & Cold
Tooth decay can start gradually, but it eventually eats away at the enamel of a tooth and starts to make its way into the dentin. When this happens, you may begin to notice that certain teeth feel more sensitive to hot or cold beverages and foods. Because the dentin is porous and has direct access to the root of your tooth, hot and cold can be extremely painful. Patients often notice the most pain when they enjoy treats like ice cream or while sipping on their morning cup of coffee. If you begin to experience any sort of tooth sensitivity, you likely have a cavity, and it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
2. Bad Breath
While various dental conditions can cause bad breath, one of the most common causes is a cavity. The bacteria growing and thriving in a tooth’s crevice is also emitting waste that leads to a bad odor. This odor can get stronger and more pungent the longer you allow a cavity to grow. You might even begin to notice a persistent bad taste in your mouth. While many patients complain about bad breath first thing in the morning, some are oblivious to this smell, making it even more essential that you follow your regular checkup schedule. If you don’t realize you have bad breath and don’t have friends willing to tell you, you could be living with a cavity that needs immediate attention.
3. Swelling & Bleeding Gums
Your gums are susceptible to various bacteria and dental conditions. One of the most common is known as periodontal disease, or gum disease. Bacteria can get below the gum line’s surface, causing swelling and bleeding whenever you brush your teeth. This can happen with or without a cavity present, so it’s essential to see your dentist if you have persistent bleeding. Only your dental team will determine whether or not you have a cavity that needs attention, or if you have a serious case of gum disease. Either way, both conditions are treatable with proper dental care.
4. Severe Pain
In serious cavity cases, patients will complain about severe toothaches and sharp pain. This bit of information is key for your dentist to know, so they know just how serious the infection is and how deep it goes. When you have a cavity that’s causing you severe pain, it’s not uncommon for you to experience sharp pain when biting down or simply relaxing. You might also find it rather difficult to brush and floss like normal, making these daily routines unpleasant. If you’re experiencing severe pain, this means that the cavity has made its way through your tooth and is exposing the inner nerve, which could lead to a more invasive dental procedure known as a root canal.
5. Obvious Holes
Cavities are simply small holes in your teeth where bacteria have been allowed to live and thrive. These microscopic organisms have eaten away at your teeth’s surfaces, creating more room for more bacteria, food, and sugars. While many cavities are only visible to trained dental experts, some holes can grow rather large and become noticeable to the patient. When you start to suspect holes or cavities in your teeth, it’s time to schedule an appointment. The only way to ensure the infection doesn’t spread or cause any more damage is to have it looked at and filled by your dentist.
Schedule an Appointment with Us
Cavities that are left untreated can lead to other dental health issues as well as overall health issues. That’s why you need to visit your dentist regularly. Whether you’re looking for a new office or have just moved to area, David C. Wood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is here for you. We proudly serve residents throughout Carmel, Zionsville, and Fishers, IN. Not only do we specialize in general dentistry, but we also offer restorative care, sleep apnea treatment, and complete rehabilitation. Visit our website to request an appointment or contact us at (317) 844-0592.