While it’s important to practice proper oral hygiene and prioritize regular visits to the dentist, you should also be mindful of changes that might require more urgent attention. Among the most common concerns are cavities, which affects millions of Americans. Recognizing the signs and seeing your provider for prompt treatment can help you avoid complications, including severe pain and tooth loss, so look out for the following.

5 Common Signs of Cavities

1. Temperature Sensitivity

If you feel pain or discomfort when you eat or drink hot or cold foods or beverages, it might be a sign that you have a cavity. This is because the cavity can expose the nerve endings in your tooth, making them more sensitive to temperature changes. If you experience this, it's important to visit your dentist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring this sign can lead to more serious dental problems.

2. Dark Spots

These spots can be brown, black, or gray and are caused by the decay of your tooth. If you notice any dark spots on your teeth, it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best treatment plan.

3. Unpleasant Breath

Cavities can also cause bad breath. This is because the bacteria that cause cavities can also cause bad breath. If you notice this sign, it's important to visit your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Your dentist can also recommend ways to improve your oral hygiene to prevent further dental problems.

4. Toothache

A toothache is one of the most common signs of a cavity. If you experience pain or discomfort in your tooth, it may be a sign that you have a cavity. The pain can be mild or severe, depending on the severity of the cavity.

5. Sensitivity to Sweet Foods

Sweet foods can cause pain because they can penetrate the cavity and reach the nerve endings in your tooth. If you experience this sign, it's important to visit your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Proudly serving patients throughout Hamilton, OH, Charles P. Debbane, DDS, offers a variety of dental care services to ensure the health of your teeth and gums. You can trust in Dr. Debbane and Dr. Laura M. Arnold, DDS, for everything from cleaning to extraction. Visit their website to find out more about their offerings, or call (513) 887-6654 to schedule an appointment.