Tooth Decay Symptoms

Good oral hygiene is a key part of our overall health.  Prevention of tooth decay and cavities is a critical way to maintain good teeth condition and avoid possible complications.  If left untreated, cavities can destroy the teeth and create potentially serious issues.

Because prompt treatment of tooth decay is important to preventing its progression, knowing the signs and symptoms of a tooth decay can help patients monitor their oral health and know when it is necessary to visit the dentist.

Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

  1. Sensitivity to hot and cold: It can be an indicator of a cavity if there is lingering sensitivity after eating or drinking cold or hot foods and drinks.  As enamel is worn away, the hard tissue below, called the dentin, is affected.  Dentin is comprised of microscopic hollow tubes and when there is insufficient enamel protecting it, food/drinks that are cold, hot, acidic, or sticky can stimulate the nerve and cells inside the tooth creating sensitivity.
  2. Lingering sensitivity from sweets: Cold and hot are the most common sensitivities when a cavity is present but exposure to sweets can also create sensitivity issues when a cavity is present.  Like temperature sensitivity, lingering discomfort after consuming sweets often results from damage to the enamel and indicates the beginning of a cavity.
  3. Toothache: Ongoing aches and pains in one or more tooth generally indicates a cavity and is one of the most common symptoms.  The discomfort can come on suddenly or can result from something that was eaten.  The pain can affect the mouth and may feel pressure when biting down on food.
  4. Staining on the tooth: The earliest sign of tooth decay is the formation of white spots on the tooth surface.  As the tooth decay advances, the stain becomes darker in color and will appear brown or black.
  5. A pit or hole in the tooth: As the white spot from decay worsens, a pit or hole in the tooth may form that may be visible when looking in a mirror or felt when the tongue is run over the tooth surface.  In some cases, such as cavities in crevices or between the teeth, cannot be felt or seen but pain or sensitivity in the area may be present.  Any holes or pits on a tooth, should be addressed and treated as quickly as possible by a dentist to prevent further advancement.
  6. Bad breath or unpleasant taste: Bacterial infections are responsible for cavity development and like all organisms, the bacteria produce waste which can lead to bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.  If bad breath is persistent and difficult to mask, a visit to the dentist is recommended.
  7. Swollen or bleeding gums: Cavities near the gumline can impact the surrounding tissue resulting in swollen or bleeding gums.  This is often noticeable when flossing and brushing.  Bleeding gums can also signal gingivitis and also warrant a visit to the dentist to address.
  8. No symptoms: Early in the stages of decay, a cavity may not show any symptoms and patients may not learn they have a cavity until diagnosed by the dentist during a routine checkup.  As such, regular examinations and cleanings are important in catching the condition as early as possible.

More on Tooth Decay : What is Tooth Decay?