Brushing and flossing twice daily can prevent common dental concerns, such as cavities and gum disease, but there’s no guarantee that you’ll never develop a problem. Bacteria in your mouth can penetrate your enamel or connective tissues in places that can be challenging to see or reach on your own at home, like between teeth or behind your molars.
Thankfully, your dentist can provide tooth-colored fillings or other services as needed to repair damaged teeth, but only if you’ve scheduled an appointment. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential indicators of cavities, so you know when to call for help!
Sign #1: You Feel Discomfort
When it comes to your teeth, no pain is really considered ‘normal’. For example, you might think extreme or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures isn’t a big deal, but it could point to thinning or injured enamel, which allows sensations to travel more easily through the microscopic tubes in the lower layer of dentin to trigger the tender nerves inside.
If you notice a sharp sensation, especially when biting down, you might already have a cavity that requires treatment. Furthermore, throbbing or persistent toothaches can point to a more serious underlying infection that may require a root canal procedure or extraction.
Sign #2: You See Damaged Enamel
Paying attention to your own dental condition can help you spot concerning changes in time to get help before they progress. For instance, if you notice a section of enamel that seems to be eroding or looks darker when you’re brushing your teeth, you should call your dentist sooner rather than later.
The longer you wait to be seen, the more likely bacteria are to penetrate the site and contribute to more progressive decay or disease, which often requires more complex and costly procedures to address.
Sign #3: You Notice Torn Floss
Brushing your teeth twice daily only removes an estimated 50% to 60% of plaque and residue buildup. Flossing is also required for a thorough cleaning, and can also serve as an indicator of your dental health.
For example, if your gums bleed when you floss, you might have gingivitis. Not only that, but if you notice that the glossy string seems to shred or tear each time you run it over a certain tooth, it could be because of a cavity. Uneven or decayed enamel can leave jagged edges that fray the material when it glides past.
If you’ve noticed one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to contact your dentist!
About the Practice
At Baltimore Dental Arts, patients benefit from a team of dentists who are passionate about helping them build and maintain the healthiest and most beautiful versions of their smiles. Our providers share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services to meet your unique needs, including tooth-colored fillings and other restorations. If you’re concerned about cavities, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (410) 372-0202.