No one enjoys learning they have a cavity that requires a filling, but it’s very common. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the vast majority of adults ages 20-64 have had cavities or dental decay, affecting nearly nine in ten adults. Cavities are also common in children; 52% of kids in the United States develop cavities in their primary teeth by age 8. 

Catching a cavity early is crucial for preventing bigger problems if it goes untreated. An untreated cavity will continue to decay, causing increased pain as it spreads, sometimes requiring extensive treatment. So how can you catch a cavity early on before it worsens? Continue reading as we discuss the early signs of cavities you shouldn’t ignore.

4 Early Signs of Cavities

  1. Bad Breath

While bad breath can be an early sign of cavities, it’s not necessarily an indicator that you have a cavity. Unpleasant breath is most common after a night of sleep or naps because saliva production slows significantly during sleep. Dry mouth increases bacteria that cause bad breath, as do certain medications, poor oral hygiene, and cavities. However, if you are practicing excellent oral hygiene, including routine brushing and flossing, consuming a healthy diet, aren’t taking medications that can cause bad breath, and aren’t smoking, you may want to schedule a dental check-up to check for cavities or other causes of bad breath.

  1. Tooth Sensitivity

Did you know that more than 12% of people in the United States deal with tooth sensitivity? According to the National Institute of Health, tooth sensitivity is more common among women and individuals between the ages of 18 and 44 compared to men or older adults. Though tooth sensitivity can be caused by many reasons—teeth grinding, receding gums, and periodontal disease—sensitive teeth can indicate a cavity, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have one. Cavities can increase tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot, cold, or acidic foods.

  1. Toothache

Toothaches are no fun, forcing patients to cringe in pain and rely on over-the-counter tooth pain medications to get some relief. While toothaches can be caused by gum infections, teeth grinding, or injuries, they can also be an early sign of a cavity. As decay spreads in the tooth, it gets deeper, causing pain as it reaches the dentin, or the inner layer of the tooth.

  1. Trapped Food Between Teeth

Food getting trapped between teeth is common, which is why flossing is an important step for every individual’s oral health routine. Other factors, such as gum recession, worn dental work, or irregularities in spacing between an individual’s teeth, can cause food to get trapped between teeth, but so can cavities. Depending on the extent of decay in the tooth, it can create small pockets, allowing food to become lodged in these spaces and be trapped.

 

Not all cavities have noticeable symptoms, but most do. Dealing with cavities is no fun, but catching any of the above early signs of cavities can result in a much easier treatment than ignoring them would. However, cavities can be prevented with a few measures that can easily be added to your daily oral health regimen.

How to Prevent Cavities

Unfortunately, genetics plays a role in your risk of cavities, but so do many other things. Even if you have an increased risk of developing cavities thanks to family members who have passed the gene down to you, you can take every measure possible to prevent them. Below are some ways you can decrease your risk of developing cavities:

  • Consume a healthy diet.
  • Maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine
  • Avoid acidic drinks and foods
  • Stay hydrated
  • Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings/exams

Visiting your family dentist regularly not only results in cleaner teeth thanks to cleanings and preventative maintenance, but it can also reduce your risk of developing cavities.

Prevent Cavities by Scheduling Your Next Dental Visit with Rhoades Family Dentistry

Rhoades Family Dentistry’s team of professionals includes dentists, hygienists, and assistants who have extensive schooling and training to perform dental treatments for patients of all ages, including cavity prevention. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll are members of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Association of Orthodontics, among many other organizations. 

Rhoades Family Dentistry offers dental care for the entire family, including routine cleanings, preventative maintenance, fillings, and more. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll care about your family’s oral health and are here to help recommend the best type of oral hygiene practices for your entire family, including Invisalign and braces, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, whitening, and more. 

Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” on the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you by providing excellent dental care and giving your family healthy smiles!