Cavities may start small, but if left untreated, they can cause serious damage — not just to your teeth, but to your overall health. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 Americans have untreated cavities. These little holes can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss, so it’s important to spot the early warning signs and act fast.
At Espire Dental, we’re here to help you protect your smile. Let’s break down what cavities are, how they form, and the 5 signs you shouldn’t ignore.
What Exactly Is a Cavity?
A cavity is a small hole in your tooth caused by decay. It begins when plaque — a sticky film made of bacteria, food particles, and saliva — builds up on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it starts to eat away at your enamel, the hard outer layer of your tooth.
Over time, this erosion can turn into a cavity. If left untreated, the decay can reach deeper into the tooth, potentially causing infections, abscesses, or the need for a root canal.
Cavities often form in hard-to-clean areas like the grooves of your molars, between teeth, or along the gumline. They’re especially common in kids (thanks to sugary snacks), but adults are just as at risk — especially if dental hygiene slips or plaque hardens into tartar.
5 Signs You Might Have a Cavity
- You Can See or Feel a Hole in Your Tooth
If you notice a visible pit, dark spot, or feel a rough patch on your tooth with your tongue, it might be a cavity. Cavities aren’t always easy to see — especially when they’re between teeth or in back molars — but visible damage or pain in a specific area is a good reason to call your dentist. - Your Tooth Feels Rough or Jagged
A chipped or cracked tooth doesn’t always mean a cavity — but it can create the perfect hiding spot for bacteria. If your tooth feels sharp or uneven, bacteria might be working their way inside, so it’s best to have it checked before it turns into a bigger problem. - You’re Sensitive to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods
Temperature sensitivity is a common early warning sign of tooth decay. If sipping hot coffee or enjoying a scoop of ice cream sends a jolt through your teeth, bacteria may have already worn through your enamel and reached the more sensitive dentin layer underneath. - You Have a Toothache
Tooth pain is one of the most obvious signs of a cavity. It may come and go or feel worse when chewing or biting down. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp discomfort, any ongoing tooth pain is worth a trip to the dentist. - You Notice Tooth Discoloration
Cavities can appear as white spots in the early stages, but as the decay progresses, they may darken into brown or black areas. If you spot unusual discoloration on your teeth, especially in the grooves or along the gumline, it could be a cavity starting to form.
Don’t Wait — Treat Cavities Early
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, don’t wait for the discomfort to get worse. Cavities won't go away on their own, and the longer you wait, the more likely you are to need more invasive (and expensive) treatment like a root canal.
At Espire Dental, we take a personalized approach to your care. Our dentists use advanced technology to detect cavities early and restore your tooth with gentle, effective treatments.
.svg)
