Cavities are among the most common dental problems, but they don’t always cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages. This can make it difficult to know whether you need a filling without seeing your dentist. A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay and helps prevent the cavity from becoming larger. But how can you tell when you might need one?
You Have Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can sometimes indicate tooth decay. You may notice a quick, sharp sensation when drinking an ice-cold beverage or eating something sweet.
However, sensitivity doesn’t always mean you have a cavity. Gum recession, enamel erosion, cracked teeth, and other dental problems can cause similar symptoms. Your dentist can determine what’s behind your sensitivity.
You Notice a Hole or Dark Spot
A visible hole, pit, or darkened area on a tooth may be a sign of decay. Cavities can develop in areas that are difficult to see, including between teeth or along the back surfaces of molars.
Don’t assume a spot is harmless simply because it doesn’t hurt. Tooth decay can progress without causing pain, especially in its earlier stages.
Your Tooth Hurts When You Bite
Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing can have several causes, including tooth decay. A cavity that has progressed deeper into the tooth may cause discomfort when pressure is applied.
A cracked tooth, damaged filling, or infection can also produce similar symptoms. If you regularly experience pain when chewing, schedule an examination rather than trying to determine the cause yourself.
Food Frequently Gets Stuck Between Your Teeth
If food consistently becomes trapped in the same location, it may indicate a cavity or another change in the shape of the tooth. Cavities between teeth can be particularly difficult to spot without a dental examination and X-rays.
Your dentist can check these hard-to-see areas for decay and determine whether treatment is necessary.
You don’t need to experience severe pain to have a cavity. Regular dental checkups can help your dentist identify decay before it causes significant damage. A simple filling can often repair a tooth affected by decay and help prevent the problem from progressing into a more complicated dental issue.
About the Practice
Drs. Danny Hayes and Allison Lent at Advanced Dental Concepts can reverse the damage of a decayed tooth quickly with our tooth-colored fillings! The process can be completed in a single appointment, and your filling can be shaded to blend in with the rest of your smile. Contact us online to schedule your appointment or call our Chesterton, IN office at (219) 926-7595.