Top 5 Signs You Might Have a Cavity
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems people face, yet many don’t realize they have one until it becomes painful or plainly visible. The good news is that cavities are treatable, especially when caught early.
At Toothbuds Family Dentistry, we want you to feel confident in spotting the warning signs, so you know when it’s time to book an early dental checkup.
Here are the top five signs you might have a cavity and why paying attention to these symptoms matters for your oral health.
1. Tooth Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Have you noticed a mild, moderate or sharp twinge or pain when drinking or eating hot or cold food or liquids? Increased sensitivity is often one of the first signs of tooth decay. Cavities can wear down your enamel and expose the dentin beneath, which reacts to temperature changes.
Infrequent sensitivity isn’t always a concern, but if it’s consistent or worsening, it could mean a cavity is forming. Having your Dr. Kaur check it early can save you from unnecessary discomfort and more extensive treatments and financial investments later.
2. Persistent Toothache or Discomfort
A cavity doesn’t always cause pain right away, but as it progresses, you may experience a dull ache or sharp pain in the affected tooth. Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to throbbing pain that interferes with your day-to-day life.
Any unexplained tooth pain is a signal that something’s not right. Dr. Kaur can determine if it’s due to a cavity, gum issues, or another dental concern and help you fix the issue.
3. Visible Holes or Pits in Your Teeth
Sometimes, cavities can be obvious. If you notice a dark spot, pit, or small hole in your tooth, that’s a clear indicator of decay. These visible signs mean the enamel has already broken down, and bacteria are damaging the inner layers of your tooth.
Even if the area isn’t painful yet, don’t ignore it. Catching tooth decay at this stage is important to prevent infection or the need for root canal treatment later
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Our Hygienist Jas With Our Great Patient Tina.
Larissa With Our Friend Mandeep From Northview Eyecare
4. Staining or Dark Spots
Not all cavities show up as holes, some appear as brown, black, or even white spots on your teeth. These discolourations are areas where the enamel has weakened or begun to break down.
Because staining can also be caused by coffee, tea, or smoking, it can be easy to overlook. If you see unusual spots that don’t go away with brushing, it’s worth having a dentist take a closer look.
5. Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a lingering bad taste in your mouth can sometimes point to tooth decay. When bacteria build up in a cavity, they produce odors that brushing and mouthwash alone won’t eliminate.
If your breath stays unpleasant even with good oral hygiene, it could be a sign of an underlying dental issue, and a cavity might be the culprit.
Why Early Detection Matters
Cavities don’t heal on their own. Left untreated, they can lead to more serious dental problems like infections, abscesses, or even tooth loss. The earlier a cavity is diagnosed, the simpler and less costly the treatment will be.
Regular dental checkups are the best way to catch problems before they worsen. At Toothbuds Family Dentistry, we use the latest diagnostic tools to detect cavities early and recommend the right treatment to keep your smile healthy.
Protecting Your Smile
Preventing cavities starts with consistent oral hygiene, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and limiting sugary foods and drinks. Adding routine dental visits ensures even small issues are addressed before they turn into big problems.
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or notice changes in your teeth, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Toothbuds Family Dentistry as soon as possible. Our team is here to provide effective care for you and your family.
Dr. Prabhdeep Kaur, a General Dentist, has been enriching the field of dentistry with her expertise for over 13 years, having obtained her license in Canada in 2015. A holder of a BDS degree, Dr. Kaur’s proficiency spans a wide array of dental services, including General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Invisalign, and more. Her commitment to her craft is further evidenced by her memberships in prestigious organizations like the Ontario Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario.
Renowned for her patient-focused approach, Dr. Kaur emphasizes the importance of listening and customizing treatments to meet individual needs, viewing dentistry not only as a science but also as an art form dedicated to enhancing and restoring smiles. Her dedication to ongoing education ensures she remains at the cutting edge of dental advancements.
Outside her professional life, Dr. Kaur enjoys family time, travel, and cinema, adding a relatable and approachable dimension to her persona. She is passionate about delivering professional and quality dental care, driven by her desire to connect with people and address their dental needs effectively.
Dr. Kaur’s journey in dentistry serves as an inspiration for aspiring dental professionals, advocating determination, motivation, and enjoyment in their work. Follow her journey and professional updates on Instagram @drprabh84, where she continues to inspire both her patients and peers in the dental community.
