Without proper brushing, flossing, and regular trips to the dentist, a cavity can form and cause tooth decay. Cavities are holes in the teeth caused by the growth of harmful bacteria. Addressing the condition is a must for preventing infection and permanent tooth loss. Below are several telltale signs you may have a cavity. 

4 Red Flags a Cavity May Be Present

1. Toothaches

Lingering pain on a tooth is a common cavity symptom. While the toothache may occur after chewing a piece of food, the sharp, shooting pain can also appear out of nowhere. What triggers the discomfort is the exposure of the tooth’s dentin, which is the hard layer of tissue under the enamel.

2. Sensitivity to Cold & Hot Food

If you continuously experience a rush of pain on your tooth or teeth after eating or drinking something cold or hot, a cavity could be the culprit. Without a trip to the dentist, the decay will leave the dentin vulnerable to sensitivity. The tiny tubes of nerves inside dentin become hyper-reactive when contact is made with hot or cold substances. 

3. Holes in Teeth

Pay attention to any holes or brown or white discoloration inside the tooth. Bacteria have started to eat away at the enamel and have caused decay to set in. If the holes are located in between teeth, it may be hard to identify them. However, if you’re feeling ongoing pain or sensitivity in these crevices, a cavity could be the reason why. 

4. Bad Breath

When bacteria infect a tooth, they essentially create waste in and around the area. This can lead to bad breath, which is also known as halitosis. If the condition is chronic and doesn’t improve after brushing, there may be a cavity inside the mouth. Dentists will perform a full checkup to identify its source and if other teeth are causing an unpleasant odor. 

If you need a dental checkup, turn to the family dentistry office of Dr. Richard R. Miller, Jr., DDS. They specialize in providing superior services for maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and vibrant smiles. With offices in Summerville and Fairmount, GA, you can count on personalized and friendly care from Dr. Miller and his team of oral health professionals. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, call (706) 857-4741 for the Summerville office or (706) 337-3347 to reach the Fairmount location. Visit the website for the complete lineup of services for you and your entire family.