How to Tell If You Have Tooth Decay

Are you currently experiencing a toothache or tooth sensitivity? Does the pain keep you awake without any obvious cause, or do you feel tenderness when eating or drinking anything hot or cold? If you do, it is likely that tooth decay could be one of the reasons.

According to the Global Burden of Disease 2019, tooth decay, also known as “dental caries,” is the most common health condition. It results when acid is produced from plaque, which forms on and attacks the tooth’s surface, which is the enamel. This can then lead to cavities, and if tooth decay is not treated, it can cause infection, pain, and, worse, tooth loss.

That’s why it is important to know the signs or symptoms of tooth decay and when to see a dentist if you’re experiencing any of them.

What Causes Tooth Decay, and Who Is at Risk?

Several factors combine to cause tooth decay. When your tooth is consistently exposed to acid or when you frequently eat foods or drink beverages that are high in sugar and starches, your enamel starts to lose minerals. When this happens, you may notice a white spot on one of your teeth, which is an early sign of tooth decay.

Tooth decay can affect anyone, but some people have a higher risk of getting it, including the following:

• Babies and toddlers frequently drink from bottles, as this exposes their teeth to sugars for long periods of time.
• Older adults who have receding gums. As you age, the risk of tooth decay increases, as the protective enamel layer of your teeth wears down over time.
• People who don’t get enough fluoride. Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay, and a lack of it in your diet or water supply can increase the risk of tooth decay.
• People who have dry mouths or don’t have enough saliva. Having a dry mouth due to medical conditions or medications can increase the risk of tooth decay, as saliva plays an essential role in neutralizing acid and washing away food particles from your mouth.
• People who have poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria are left in your mouth, resulting in the development of tooth decay.

What Are Some Signs of Tooth Decay?

The signs and symptoms of tooth decay vary. When it is still in its early stages, you may not have any symptoms at all. But as it gets worse, it may cause the following signs and symptoms:

• Bad breath
• Toothache
• Swollen face
• Pain from biting
• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum problems, including red and swollen gums
• Pain when drinking or eating anything sweet, cold, or hot
• Discoloration, such as black, brown, or white stains on the surface of the tooth

You may have tooth decay with or without these symptoms. That’s why it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and the appropriate treatment.

Get the Best Dental Care You Deserve

It is important to have regular dental checkups and cleanings to take care of your dental health. And here at Rayburn Dental in North Battleford, SK, we’ll bring you the best dental care. Contact us today to learn more about us and our services.