Can I Have a Cavity If It Doesn’t Hurt?

Usually, dental pain is a good indicator that something is wrong. But what about when there’s a problem and nothing hurts? When cavities are early on in their development, this is often the case. Our Washington, MI, dentist will need to examine your smile to confirm the existence of a cavity and take appropriate action. 

Here are a few telltale signs of a cavity aside from obvious pain. 

What Causes Cavities? 

It all comes down to diet and how committed you are to an oral hygiene routine. If you’re someone who only brushes their teeth once a day, rarely flosses, and loves sugary drinks, you may be at higher risk for developing cavities. 

Now, if you brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss once daily, and receive a teeth cleaning every 6 months from Dr. Lesinski, you’re golden. Otherwise, food and bacteria have more of a chance to build up on your teeth and create sticky plaque. 

Having this film sit on your teeth undisturbed will eventually lead to more of your natural enamel eroding and the formation of cavities. When this happens, you’ll need to have a tooth-colored filling placed to restore the affected tooth.

Fortunately, this is avoidable if you follow the habits previously mentioned. Dr. Lesinski can also apply dental sealants if you or your child want extra protection against cavities. 

Despite a Lack of Pain, Small Cavities Can Cause:

1) Tooth Sensitivity

A very common indication that a cavity has set in is general tooth sensitivity. The sensation can range from mild to more severe and can appear both suddenly and linger for some time. 

Have you taken a sip of your hot coffee or enjoyed a frozen treat only to experience a sensitive tooth? This could be a sign that enamel has already begun to wear away and the layer underneath, dentin, has been exposed. If tooth sensitivity is unusual for you, please give us a call and we can take a closer look.

2) Holes or Pits in the Tooth

No small hole, dent, or pit in your tooth is normal. If you see any of these when you look in the mirror, there’s no mistaking that you have tooth decay. You’ll need to contact our Washington, MI, dental office so we can determine whether a filling or dental crown is needed. 

3) Less Than Pleasant Breath

It’s not enjoyable to be told that your breath smells. It can be embarrassing and may cause you to retreat inward for fear of being humiliated again. Aside from eating foods that have powerful odors, bad breath may be the result of a cavity. 

A lack of oral hygiene can lead to food particles remaining in between teeth, around gums, and on the tongue. There, they promote the growth of bacteria which can translate to an unpleasant smell when you open your mouth. 

Dr. Lesinski strongly recommends brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly. You can also try integrating a mouthwash into your routine and giving your tongue a good brush to clear away leftover bacteria.

4) Brand New Tooth Stains or Discoloration

A visible stain or discolored spot on a tooth could be from years of consuming certain foods or beverages. It could also mean you have a cavity forming. Generally, it’s best to keep an eye out for areas that appear bright white, brown, or black. Any of these could indicate decay. 

When a cavity is new, a spot is more likely to show up as white. As the decay worsens, however, it will turn a darker shade. If you notice anything strange with regards to the appearance of your tooth’s surface, please schedule an appointment.

Bring Your Concerns to Our Attention

Cavities are a pain until sometimes they’re not. If anything with your smile ever feels out of the ordinary but isn’t exactly causing you discomfort, please inform our family dentist in Washington, MI. We’ll want you to come in for a checkup and if need be, a filling. Call Washington Family Dental at (586) 752-4545 or contact us online today.