Many people only think about their dentist when they have immediate issues, but did you know that it’s possible to have tooth decay and not be aware of it? An estimated 21% of adults in the U.S. who are between 20 and 64 years old have untreated cavities.
Fortunately, your dentist can provide tooth-colored fillings to restore your smile’s functionality and keep caries from spreading, but how do you know whether or not you have a problem? Continue reading to learn about 3 signs that might point to tooth decay so you can schedule an appointment with your provider.
Indicator #1: You Have a Toothache
Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth work in tandem with acids from the food you eat to wear down your enamel. Once the protective outer layer is compromised, germs can penetrate the nerves inside and infect the pulp. The irritated tissues can cause mild to severe sensitivity or discomfort, depending on your circumstances, especially when biting into anything overly hot or cold.
If you’re hurting, it’s time to call your dentist. There are many potential reasons for a toothache, including cavities, and you’ll need professional intervention to identify and address the underlying concern.
Indicator #2: Your Floss String Tears
It’s natural to think your teeth must surely be healthy if you don’t see any obvious areas of decay when you’re brushing and flossing. Unfortunately, they can develop in hard-to-see places like between two teeth or behind your molars.
That means it’s possible to have a problem even if you don’t see one on the surface. However, damaged enamel often has sharper edges that can fray your floss. If you notice that the string is torn or damaged when you reach a certain spot, there’s a chance you have cavity there slicing the fibers.
Indicator #3: You See Discoloration
Another common indicator that you’ve developed caries is dental discoloration. Although the outer layer of your teeth, the enamel, is a translucent bluish-white hue, the lower layer of dentin beneath it is more yellow or brown. When bacteria wear through the protective outer shield, more of deeper hues are visible. If you can see dark spots on or around your teeth, you may have untreated decay or other injuries that deserve professional intervention.
If you’re unsure whether you have cavities, it’s worth contacting your dentist for an examination just to be safe. They’ll check your mouth for any issues and then recommend appropriate treatments, like tooth-colored fillings to repair your smile’s functionality while enhancing your appearance.
