Spotting the Signs of Tooth Decay

Seeing your dentist in Damascus twice per year for cleanings and checkups is an excellent way to catch and treat early signs of tooth decay. However, it’s important to remain on the lookout for signs of decay between visits.

Pain

Pain symptoms are some of the clearest signs that something is not right with a tooth. Pain that occurs when you chew or bite down can be a sign of a decayed or cracked tooth that needs attention. Similarly, if you experience tooth pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages, then the tooth may be affected by a cavity or tooth infection. Finally, if you have a persistent toothache, see your dentist as soon as possible

Sensitivity

Often, early signs of tooth decay are not particularly obvious and can be easily overlooked. Sensitivity, for instance, is a cavity symptom that is annoying for people, but often not enough to get them to visit their dentist. However, the sooner any decay is treated, the less likely it is that you’ll need a large filling or root canal. If you notice that one of your teeth has become more sensitive, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Discoloration

There are times when tooth decay can be present, but you experience no pain or discomfort. If you notice any discoloration of your teeth, it’s important that you not discount these symptoms just because they aren’t aggravating you. Visit your dentist right away if you notice that one of your teeth appears gray or darker in color than the rest of your teeth. Other signs to watch for are stains on your teeth, which can appear white, brown, or black.

Pits

Like discolorations, holes can develop on the surface of a tooth without causing any painful symptoms. If you see or feel that one of your teeth has a pit or a hole, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible to receive treatment for the decayed area.