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The common symptoms of tooth decay

The common symptoms of tooth decay

If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to a number of complications.

We all know how important it is to take care of our oral health on a daily basis. Not only does proper oral hygiene help to keep our smiles healthy and beautiful, it can also benefit our overall wellness. Unfortunately, tooth decay is a common problem for many people. In fact, many adults have untreated cavities, which can lead to serious issues down the line.

Although tooth decay does not always present with symptoms (especially in its early stages), there are a few warning signs you should be aware of. Read on to find out more about the signs of a cavity, and why it is important to see your dentist regularly…

What is tooth decay?

When food debris and bacteria are left to accumulate in the mouth, they can lead to the formation of plaque, a sticky substance that coats the teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce harmful acids that can cause serious damage to the teeth, eroding the enamel over time and leading to cavities.

The best way to get rid of plaque and prevent it from building up is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. If, however, a cavity forms in the tooth, it can cause more and more damage over time. Untreated cavities can also lead to infections and painful dental abscesses.

What are the symptoms of tooth decay?

One of the most common signs of tooth decay is tooth sensitivity that is triggered by eating or drinking something that is hot or cold. When the enamel of your teeth begins to erode, the dentin beneath it can also be affected. Without the protection of the enamel, the nerves inside the tooth can be stimulated by heat and cold, as well as acidic foods and drinks.

While sensitivity to heat and cold is among the most common signs of tooth decay, you might also notice discomfort when you eat or drink something sweet. This is also often a sign of enamel damage and the possible presence of a cavity.

Besides sensitivity, you might also experience tooth pain in a tooth that is affected by decay. This pain can be sudden and sharp, or may be triggered by the pressure of biting and chewing.

Another possible sign of a cavity is staining on the surface of the affected tooth. You might notice white spots on your tooth, which darken over time as the tooth decay becomes more severe. Stains caused by tooth decay can be in brown or black in colour.

If you notice a white spot on the surface of your tooth and do not have the issue addressed by your dentist, you are likely to end up with a hole in your tooth. You may not be able to see or even feel the hole, especially if it forms between your teeth or in a crevice of a chewing surface, but you might experience some pain in the area.

When should you see your dentist?

Ideally, you should see your dentist every six months for a routine check-up so that any early signs of tooth decay can be identified and treated as soon as possible. If, however, you haven’t seen your dentist in a while and you notice any of the possible signs of a cavity, you should arrange an appointment immediately. Your dentist will be able to recommend a treatment best suited to your issue, depending on its severity and location.

Your dentist will also be able to provide you with the information and advice you need to improve your oral hygiene routine. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions that you have regarding your brushing and flossing techniques, lifestyle habits and dietary choices and how all of these factors could be affecting your smile.

How can we help?

At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, we offer a range of general and preventative dentistry services. We love to teach our patients about the importance of looking after your smile, and are available to guide and support you towards better oral health.

If you would like to find out more about our preventative dentistry services, please have a look here.

To book an appointment to see us, please contact us here or give us a call on 07 3889 3324.

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- JAYDEE GALON

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