Do you think you have cavities in your teeth? Don't you want to tell someone for fear of being wrong? There are several signs that can help you determine if your tooth is indeed a cavity. However, only a dentist can tell you with certainty that your tooth is indeed a cavity. To avoid more severe tooth decay, you should immediately treat cavities. The first step is to find out if you have cavities.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Recognizing Tooth Cavities
Step 1. Know that cavities are really holes in the teeth
It can be seen with the naked eye or not. Cavities in the teeth are caused by aging of the teeth. If not treated immediately, cavities can cause damage to your teeth, gums, and even make you sick. If the cavities become infected, you need to seek medical help immediately.
Step 2. Remember that cavities are permanent damage
There are several ways to treat cavities, but there is no way to restore the teeth to their original condition. A dentist can drill or cut the cavity and fill it with a safe material. Your teeth will not return to their original state.
Step 3. Know the causes of tooth aging
Dental aging can be caused by poor dental health, poor diet, and bad habits, such as smoking. You can avoid tooth aging by limiting or avoiding these causes. You can prevent tooth aging and improve your general dental health.
Method 2 of 3: Knowing the Signs of Cavities
Step 1. Know that cavities may not show any obvious symptoms
Cavities do not always show obvious external symptoms. Therefore, a dentist may be the first to notice its existence. In order for your cavities to get the treatment they deserve, consult your dentist regularly.
Step 2. Watch for pain
Pain is a sign that may indicate that your tooth has cavities. Toothache, tooth sensitivity, pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot, or cold; pain when biting are all signs of cavities. If you experience any of the above consistently, consult a dentist.
Step 3. Look at your teeth
Indications for cavities are visible holes or cuts in your teeth or brown, black, or white stains. However, because everyone's mouth is different, it can be difficult for you to know exactly whether your teeth are cavities. The people who are trained to determine are dentists. If you think you have cavities, consult a dentist.
Method 3 of 3: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Find a dentist
Ask people you trust or look online. The best guide is advice from your friends or family. Since you are most likely not trained to determine if your tooth is indeed a cavity, you will need to consult a dentist. Check immediately to avoid further damage to your teeth.
Step 2. Tell the dentist about the problem area
Thus, he will be able to focus on that area. If it turns out that the cause of the pain is not cavities, the doctor may still be able to help. Try to describe the problem as specifically as possible. Tell your dentist if you feel a sharp pain while he is examining his teeth.
Step 3. Have him check your teeth
A dentist can press and squeeze your teeth to find out any strength or damage that may be present. Make sure your dentist performs a thorough examination of any teeth you think are problematic. Thus, any existing hole can be treated.
Step 4. Perform an X-ray examination
Holes that form between teeth are not always easily visible. A dentist may not be able to see it in person or with an instrument because it may not fit in the location between your teeth. If so, you can ask your doctor to do an X-ray examination to check further. If you think you have cavities, ask your doctor for an X-ray examination.
Tips
- Don't eat/drink too many sugary foods/drinks.
- Consult a dentist if you are not sure.
- Brush your teeth regularly.
- Don't procrastinate. Your toothache won't go away unless you visit the dentist.
- Brushing your teeth regularly can prevent cavities from forming.
- If your tooth hurts, do something to take your mind off the pain; for example, read a book or listen to music.
