Did you know that cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases in the world?
When you go to see the dentist, it’s hard to remember the tiny details of what you’re seeing while in the room. You may also wonder what does a cavity look like. You may worry that it’s red or has a plaque on it, so it’s helpful to have a general idea of what to expect when you go to the dentist.
In this post, we’ll give you a closer look at the “behind the scenes” of cavities. Let’s begin!
The Culprit: Meet the Cavity
Before we can unveil what a cavity looks like, let’s meet our villain – the cavity. A dental cavity or tooth decay, is a small hole or pit that forms on the surface of your teeth. It’s primarily caused by bacteria that feast on the sugars and starches from the foods we consume, producing acids that gradually erode tooth enamel.
The Unveiling: What Does a Cavity Look Like?
What does a cavity look like? They can vary in appearance depending on their stage of development, but they generally progress through several distinct stages.
Early Stage (White Spot Lesion)
In the early cavity stage, you may not see any visible signs. However, the affected area may appear as a chalky white spot on the tooth’s surface. This white spot is a sign that minerals are being lost from the enamel.
It can be difficult to detect with the naked eye, especially from children, but a Pediatric Dentist will be able to spot cavities at this stage.
Moderate Stage (Yellow or Brown Spot)
As the decay progresses, the white spot may turn into a yellow or light brown spot. The enamel is weakened, and the tooth’s surface may feel slightly rough when you run your tongue over it. The decay is still confined to the outer layer of the tooth.
Advanced Stage (Cavity Formation)
If the decay continues to progress, it will eventually create a cavity or hole in the tooth. The cavity may appear as a dark, discolored pit or depression on the tooth’s surface.
It can range in size from small to large, depending on how long the decay has been allowed to progress. It’s also characterized by teeth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks.
Severe Stage (Deep Cavity)
If left untreated, the cavity can extend deeper into the tooth, reaching the inner layer called dentin. At this point, the cavity may become more painful and noticeable. The tooth’s structure may be compromised, and it may become more susceptible to infection.
Advanced Decay (Tooth Abscess)
In the most advanced cases, untreated cavities can lead to a tooth abscess, which is a painful infection that can cause severe swelling, pus formation, and even systemic health issues. The appearance of the tooth may not be the primary concern, as the focus shifts to treating the infection and potentially saving the tooth.
Unveiling the Cavity’s Secrets
Now we know the answer to the question “What does a cavity look like?”, it’s important to take care of it and talk to a dentist about prevention and treatment. The early signs of cavities are difficult to spot without a dental professional’s care, so visit a dentist regularly for proper examination and treatment. Schedule your next appointment today, and let them help you take control of your oral health!
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