How to Spot a Cavity Early

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues but they’re not always easy to spot. You may not feel anything at all in the early stages, which makes it easy to miss the warning signs. Left untreated, however, a cavity can progress into a serious infection, damaging deeper layers of the tooth and potentially spreading beyond the mouth.

If you’re wondering whether that twinge of tooth pain or visible spot is a cause for concern, here’s how to tell if you might have a cavity and why seeing a dentist is key.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a small hole that forms in your tooth when enamel is damaged by acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria feed on sugars and starches left behind from food and drinks. Over time, they create plaque, which slowly erodes the outer layer of your teeth.

You won’t always notice a cavity right away, but the earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to treat.

Signs You May Have a Cavity

Even if you don’t see or feel anything unusual, cavities can still be forming. But as they progress, you may start to notice:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

• Sharp or dull tooth pain, especially when chewing

• Pain when biting down

• Visible white spots on the enamel (an early sign of decay)

• Gray, brown, or black discoloration

• Pits or holes you can feel with your tongue

• Food getting stuck in the same spot between your teeth

Cavities most often appear in hard-to-see areas like the chewing surfaces of molars or between teeth. This is one reason why regular dental checkups and X-rays are so important.

What Are "Invisible" Cavities?

Some cavities form between the teeth or under the surface, making them impossible to see without dental tools or imaging. These “hidden” or invisible cavities can quietly grow for months, causing little to no pain until they reach deeper layers of the tooth.

A 2021 review found that dental X-rays can increase the detection of hidden cavities by nearly 10 times, especially between teeth places where toothbrushes can’t reach well.

What Happens If You Ignore a Cavity?

Once a cavity forms, it typically doesn’t go away on its own. In very early stages like when you only have a white spot on your enamel it may be possible to stop or reverse the damage with fluoride and good oral hygiene. But once the enamel is breached, the damage is permanent and will continue to worsen without treatment.

An untreated cavity can eventually reach the pulp (the inner layer of your tooth), leading to an infection known as an abscess.

Signs of an abscessed tooth include:

• Severe pain and swelling

• Red, inflamed gums

• A bad taste or smell in the mouth

• Fever

• Pus draining near the tooth

In rare cases, a tooth infection can become life-threatening if it spreads into the bloodstream. That’s why early detection and care are critical.

How Dentists Diagnose Cavities

Even if you suspect a cavity, only a dentist can confirm it. Here’s how they’ll typically check:

• Visual exam: Dentists use a mirror and dental tools to check for discoloration, surface changes, and softness in the enamel.

• Cavity scoring system: Some use the ICDAS (International Caries Detection and Assessment System), which assigns scores from 0 to 6 to assess cavity depth.

• Dental X-rays: The most accurate way to spot cavities between teeth or below the surface.

X-rays help dentists see through enamel and evaluate the extent of decay, although they can sometimes underestimate the true depth. The process is safe and quick, using a lead apron to protect your body from radiation.

Can You Prevent a Cavity?

Yes most cavities are preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. Tips include:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to clean between teeth

• Limit sugary snacks and drinks

• Drink water with fluoride

• Avoid frequent sipping on sweet beverages

• Consider sealants (especially for children) to protect molars

• Use a fluoride mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist

When to See a Dentist

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to schedule an appointment:

• Ongoing tooth sensitivity or pain

• Food regularly getting stuck in the same spot

• Visible spots, holes, or color changes

• Gums that feel swollen or tender near a tooth

The sooner a cavity is diagnosed, the less invasive and less expensive your treatment will be. Most small cavities can be treated with a simple filling. Left untreated, you may need a root canal or even a tooth extraction.

The Bottom Line

Cavities don’t always cause pain in the beginning, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t progressing. If you suspect you have one or simply haven’t had a checkup in a while your dentist can spot the early warning signs before serious damage sets in.

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