Signs You Might Have a Cavity

January 19, 2021

What is a Cavity?
A cavity explained by the Cleveland Clinic is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay. Cavities form when acids in the mouth wear down or erode, a tooth’s hard outer layer (enamel). Anyone can get a cavity. Proper brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can prevent cavities (sometimes called dental caries).

Some Symptoms of a Cavity
Often one of the first thoughts that comes to mind when you feel tooth discomfort is ‘Oh No, I have a cavity.”  Some of the symptoms according to the Mayo Clinic could include;

  • Toothache, spontaneous pain, or pain that occurs without any apparent cause
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot, or cold
  • Visible holes or pits in your teeth
  • Brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth
  • Pain when you bite down

How can I Prevent Cavities?

Visit your dentist regularly
Contact Dr. Lin, of Smiles of Round Lake recommends you to visit your dentist every six months for oral exams and cleanings.  That way your dentist will be able to catch any cavities before they begin to form.

Brush Your Teeth
It is important to brush your teeth regularly twice a day.  You can learn more about brushing habits recommend by Smiles of Round Lake here.

Floss Your Teeth
Food debris gets caught in between your teeth when you eat. If the debris is not removed, it can lead to cavities. Flossing or using an interdental cleaner every day is the best way to remove food debris from in between the teeth.

Eating Healthy
Drink plenty of water, especially water with fluoride. Foods that contain fluoride are good for you. These include fish, tea, grape juice, and green leafy vegetables. Fruits also contain a natural sweetener called Xylitol that is proven to help fight cavities. Chewing Xylitol gum helps reduce bacteria in the mouth.

Use a Mouthwash
Rinsing with Mouthwash can aid in the prevention of cavities after brushing or eating.  There are a couple of antimicrobial mouth rinses on the market that has been clinically proven to reduce plaque, such as Listerine or Crest Pro-Health. 

Do need a checkup?
Contact Dr. Lin, of Smiles of Round Lake if you are experiencing any of these issues or have concerns.  Smiles of Round Lake will be able to give a visual and x-ray exam to check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities. Please give us a call today at 847-546-1542 to schedule an appointment.