What Cavity Symptoms Look Like
Cavities are areas of permanent damage on your teeth caused by bacteria. They start on the surface and work their way inward. The earlier you catch them, the simpler and cheaper the fix.
Common Signs of a Cavity
Sensitivity to sweets: One of the earliest signs. If a specific tooth stings when you eat candy or drink juice, decay might be the cause.
Sensitivity to hot or cold: As decay gets deeper, temperature changes can trigger pain.
Visible dark spots: Brown or black spots on the surface of a tooth may be decay. But not all dark spots are cavities, so a dental exam is important.
Pain when biting: If decay has weakened the tooth structure, biting pressure can cause pain.
Food getting stuck: Cavities create rough areas and holes where food gets trapped.
No symptoms at all: Many cavities, especially between teeth, have no symptoms until they are large. This is why regular checkups matter.
What to Do Now
- Look for visible signs. Check your teeth in good light for dark spots, rough areas, or holes. But remember, many cavities are hidden between teeth.
- Do not wait for pain. By the time a cavity hurts, it is usually deep. Schedule regular dental checkups every 6 months.
- Use DentaSmart for early detection. Upload a photo or X-ray and get AI powered analysis. Catching a cavity early means a $150 filling instead of a $1,000 root canal.
