Cavities are more common than you think. According to the CDC, about 1 in 4 adults between the ages of 20 and 64 years old currently have at least one cavity. With statistics like these, you may be wondering if you’ve got a cavity hiding in your mouth.
Here are a few common signs that you might have a cavity hiding in your smile.
Toothache and tooth sensitivity
If you experience frequent painful toothaches, this may be a sign you have a cavity. The toothache may come on suddenly or after eating, but could also begin without any apparent cause. If you notice an ongoing toothache or sensitivity with a specific tooth, this is a likely indicator of a cavity.
Pain while eating
If hot, cold and sweet foods have been bothering your teeth or causing sensitivity, you may have a cavity. Sensitivity is caused by tooth enamel being worn away. This could be due to cavities or other factors. If there isn’t enough enamel to protect your teeth, hot and cold temperature foods will likely cause pain.
Visible holes, pits or coloration
An obvious sign of a cavity is visibly seeing it. Although cavities are typically too small to see, there are some visible signs of tooth damage. Cavities usually begin as white spots that if untreated will form into pits or holes. If you see or feel pits in your teeth, call your dentist right away as these are clear signs of tooth decay.
If you suspect you have a cavity or haven’t visited the dentist in six months, give Jackson Dental a call! Schedule your appointment by calling (573) 243-5200 or stopping by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo.