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Have you noticed unusual sensations in your teeth lately? Are you wondering if that sharp twinge when sipping a cold drink might mean something more? Here’s the answer—if something feels off, you could be dealing with a cavity.Cavities, or dental caries, are common and affect people of all ages. Understanding what a cavity feels like is the first step toward recognizing the problem and addressing it before it worsens.

Hey, we get it – a cavity might not be anyone’s favourite topic, but it is important to take them seriously. ! Let's dive into what exactly a cavity is, how they form, and why you want to catch them early.

What Exactly is a Cavity?

A cavity is basically a small hole or area of decay caused by acid from bacteria. These sneaky bacteria love sugary snacks and produce acids that slowly wear down your enamel. If ignored, cavities can dig deeper, reaching sensitive parts of your tooth and causing serious discomfort or even infection. 

! Let’s dive into what a cavity actually feels like so you know what to watch for.

How to Know if You Have a Cavity? 

Here are the key symptoms and sensations to watch out for if you suspect you might have a cavity:

Tooth Sensitivity 

One of the earliest and most common signs of a cavity is increased tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity occurs when the enamel starts to wear down, leaving the more sensitive layers of the tooth exposed. 

Curious how it feels? Imagine biting into your favorite ice cream or sipping a piping hot latte, only to be met with a sharp tingling sensation in a particular tooth. This discomfort can vary from mild annoyance to an ache that lingers. If you're regularly noticing this discomfort with hot, cold, or sweet foods, it's time to chat with your dentist.

Toothache or Persistent Discomfort 

When a cavity progresses, it often causes persistent discomfort in the tooth. This is your tooth’s way of waving a red flag. Toothache can either be dull and constant or sharp and sudden, especially when chewing or biting. It can affect your ability to eat, concentrate, and even sleep.

Tooth discomfort isn’t something to ignore. Scheduling a dental appointment can save both your tooth and your peace of mind.

Visible Holes or Pits in Your Tooth 

Sometimes, cavities become visible to the naked eye. These small holes or pits on the surface of your tooth are a clear sign of decay. You might notice a rough or uneven edge when running your tongue over the affected tooth. While this sensation might not always bring discomfort, it’s still a sign that the enamel is breaking down.

Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste

Cavities can contribute to bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth, even after brushing. This constant bad taste can linger, and bad breath might leave you feeling self-conscious in social situations.

Gum Sensitivity 

If a cavity forms near the gumline, it can irritate the surrounding gum tissue. The gum around the affected tooth may feel tender and swollen or bleed slightly when brushing or flossing.

What to do: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush in the meantime, but book that dental appointment ASAP.

Why Addressing Cavities Early is Important? 

Don’t ignore a cavity – it’s not going to fix itself! If left untreated, the decay can dig deeper into your tooth, leading to bigger (and more expensive) problems like crowns, root canals, or even saying goodbye to the tooth altogether. Catch it early, and you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle. 

 What Happens if You Delay Treatment?

• Discomfort increases as the decay spreads to the nerve of the tooth.
• You risk infection, which can spread to other areas of your body.
• More advanced treatments like root canals or extractions may be needed.

Don’t wait until a minor twinge turns into a major toothache. 

Can Cavities Be Prevented? Yes, Absolutely! 

While it’s important to know what a cavity feels like, prevention is even better. Follow these tips to help protect your oral health:

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride strengthens enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Brush at least twice daily.
• Floss daily: Tackle plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can't reach.
• Reduce sugary foods and drinks: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria, so try to limit sweets and sugary beverages.
• Sip water: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria between meals.
• Visit your dentist every six months: Regular cleanings and check-ups are vital for early detection of potential issues.
• Use mouthwash: Fluoride-based or antibacterial mouthwashes add an extra layer of protection.

Making these habits part of your routine can help reduce your risk of cavities—so you can keep smiling with confidence.

Take Action Today! 

If you think you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above—whether it’s a twinge of sensitivity, a visible hole, or persistent discomfort—don’t wait. Book your next appointmentwith Swish Oral Care in Calgary, AB, now. Our team is here to help address your dental concerns and keep your smile healthy and cavity-free.