Monday, February 11, 2013

Livermore Dentist - Signs you may have a cavity - Smiles by Design in Livermore




One of the most important keys to a healthy mouth is treating issues with cavities immediately after they occur. Failure to promptly and properly treat a cavity puts the individual at a higher risk for developing further cavities since cavities can be spread to other teeth through the saliva. Because of this, it is important to know the signs of a cavity, thus allowing for prompt treatment to occur.

Signs of a Cavity
Like many other health conditions, the signs of a cavity vary based on the conditions surrounding it. For example, the location of the cavity may change the signs and symptoms experienced, as may the time period the cavity has gone without treatment. However, despite the location and duration of time the cavity has existed, there are some signs that can signal the existence of a cavity. These signs and symptoms include:
1) A toothache in the affected tooth, or along one particular area of the mouth
2) Sensitivity in the affected tooth
3) Holes in the teeth that can be seen or felt with the tongue or dental instrument
4) Pain with pressure (such as biting down into something)
5) Pain with consuming food or beverages that are hot or cold
6) Pus coming from the gums when pressure is applied

An individual with a cavity may present with one of these symptoms, or a variety of them. Additionally, symptoms may start out very mild and hardly noticeable, and turn more severe as time passes. It is for this reason that regular dental check-ups are highly recommended. A dentist is able to spot areas that are at risk for a cavity, as well as early cavities, and can deal with them before they become a larger problem. In some cases, this may be the only way to tell that a cavity is present or developing as many cavities show no signs until they are very well developed in the mouth. At this point, they generally cause a great deal of pain, and are much more intrusive and costly to repair.

When to Seek Dental Attention
The best time to get dental treatment for a cavity is before any signs and symptoms appear. However, since this isn’t always an option, seeking dental attention as soon as symptoms appear is extremely important. Aside from saving yourself some pain and money, treating sooner rather than later may allow for more of the actual tooth to be saved. It also means that transmission of bacteria from the cavity site to nearby teeth is minimized, and thus other teeth may be saved from also having to undergo cavity treatment.

In short, any pain in the mouth is generally the best sign that there is a problem with the teeth. So, if aching or sharp pain is experienced in the mouth, see your dentist immediately. In some cases sensitivity may be a sign of another problem, but seeking dental advise sooner will allow for the best and most minimally invasive treatment.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/signs-you-may-have-a-cavity/
by teeth center staff

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com
 

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