You don’t always have to go to the dentist or get an X-ray to learn whether you have a cavity. If you’re concerned about tooth decay, you may be able to assess your teeth at home. Here are four tips to help spot cavities so you can schedule a dentist appointment to have them addressed right away.

How to Identify Cavities in Your Teeth

1. Check for Dark Areas

Teeth are naturally a wide variety of shades of white and yellow. If a tooth is decaying or infected by a cavity, it can turn dark tan, brown, or black. When looking at your teeth in the mirror, you may spot a small discoloration that indicates the presence of a cavity and the need for professional oral care. 

2. Assess Potential Holes or Divets

As teeth decay due to a buildup of bacteria, they can incur holes or divets. You might notice these areas while brushing your teeth or by feeling them with your tongue. Food particles are drawn to these spots and can contribute to further decay, so it’s important to contact a dentist right away after noticing these markings.

3. Be Aware of Sensitivity and Pain

If a cavity has been present for months, it can affect the nerves inside your teeth and cause aching and sharp pains. These dental issues may also make your teeth more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, too.

4. Keep an Eye out for Pus

When cavities go untreated for a long time, they can grow and cause an abscess, or infection, at the root that often presents as a pocket of pus near the gumline. This is a serious dental problem that must be professionally assessed and treated immediately to prevent the infection from spreading. 

If your family is in need of dental care for cavities, contact Teresa Wade DDS – Family Dentistry in Andrews County, TX. Born, raised, and educated in Texas, their team has spent over 38 years helping the community with general dentistry such as teeth whitening, root canals, dentures, teeth extraction, and oral hygiene advice. Call (432) 523-7782 or visit the website for information on their friendly, relaxing office and talented, knowledgeable staff.