Cavities are the most common dental issue most people face. Around half the teenagers and a quarter of adults in Australia are likely to experience a cavity.
Identifying the early signs of tooth decay is essential to prevent cavities from forming.
Read on to learn how to recognise cavity symptoms early and improve your dental hygiene.
What are cavities, and how do they form?
Cavities, or holes in your teeth, occur when bacteria eat away at the tooth’s surface. Typically, cavities start at the outermost layer of the tooth, the enamel, and work their way toward the middle layer, or the dentin.
What causes cavities?
Sticky or sugary foods and drinks are the most significant risk factors for causing cavities. Bacteria in your mouth consume the sugar and then produce acid, which strips calcium away from your teeth. This calcium stripping makes teeth more susceptible to decay. Smokers are also more likely to experience cavities as tobacco decreases and thicken saliva.
Signs you may have a cavity
Discoloration on your tooth: these can be white, yellow, brown, or black—the darker the colour, the more severe the decay. If you spot a discolouration, call your dentist in Perth.
You notice a rough patch on your tooth: a rough texture can be the first indication there’s an issue with your tooth.
There’s a hole in your tooth: sometimes cavities form in the grooves, between teeth, or under fillings. If you notice a hole, call your dentist.
You have a missing piece of tooth: feeling a hole in a tooth can point to tooth decay, and your dentist must inspect your tooth.
Your tooth is painful or sensitive: sensitivity to hot and cold food or drink can indicate a cavity. Exposed dentin has little tubes that allow what you consume to reach the tooth’s nerves, causing pain. Cavities can also expose a tooth’s internal nerve, causing a toothache and shooting pain.
When to see a dentist
If you recognise these signs, visit your local oral health centre in WA. The earlier you identify an issue, the easier and less invasive the treatment will likely be.
Generally, we recommend visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and clean. However, depending on your oral health risk factors, you may need frequent appointments.
Our dentists will help educate you on how to prevent serious dental problems from arising in the future and help you feel confident with a beautiful, healthy smile.
Dentist in Victoria Park
If you are looking for a dentist, our specialist team at Aardent Dental in Vic Park are experts in treating tooth decay.
Our dentists have a wealth of experience in cosmetic and general dentistry, and we pride ourselves on our service.
Please book an appointment with us today by calling our practice on 6330 8666.
Recent Comments