How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity? Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Even with daily brushing and flossing, cavities can still sneak up on you, and catching them early is the key to preventing bigger dental problems later. Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, believes that understanding the early signs of tooth decay helps you take action before it turns into pain or damage.

If you’ve been wondering, “How do I know if I have a cavity?”, here are the symptoms you shouldn’t ignore and what to do if you notice them.

What Is a Cavity & How Does It Form?

A cavity is a small hole or area of decay that develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, breaks down your tooth’s enamel. Over time, that decay can reach deeper layers of your tooth, causing sensitivity, pain, or even infection.

Common causes include:

• Poor brushing and flossing habits
• Frequent snacking or sugary drinks
• Dry mouth or low saliva flow
• Worn fillings or enamel erosion

1. Tooth Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods

If your tooth twinges when you sip coffee or eat ice cream, that’s one of the most common early cavity symptoms. As the enamel wears away, temperature and sugar can reach the more sensitive inner layer of your tooth, causing discomfort.

When to Call Your Reno Dentist

Sensitivity that lingers or gets worse is a clear sign it’s time to schedule a checkup. Sala Family Dentistry can identify the cause and treat it before decay worsens.

2. Tooth Pain or Discomfort When Chewing

A cavity can make biting down uncomfortable or even painful, especially when decay reaches the deeper layers of the tooth. Pain while chewing often means the nerve is affected.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Even if the pain comes and goes, it’s a warning sign. Early treatment prevents infection and preserves as much of the tooth as possible.

3. Visible Spots, Holes, or Dark Areas on Your Tooth

Sometimes you can actually see a cavity forming. It might look like a small brown, black, or white spot on the surface of your tooth. As it progresses, the area may become rough or develop a visible pit.

What Your Dentist Looks For

During your routine dental exam in Reno, your dentist uses advanced imaging and visual inspection to detect even tiny areas of decay before you can feel them.

4. Persistent Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste

Cavities can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth. If brushing and mouthwash don’t help, decay could be the culprit.

How Sala Family Dentistry Can Help

Our hygienists provide deep cleanings to remove bacteria and plaque, while our dentists can fill small cavities quickly and comfortably, preventing future decay.

5. Sharp, Sudden Pain or Sensitivity When You Least Expect It

If you experience sudden, sharp tooth pain, especially when eating or drinking, it could mean the decay has reached the nerve of your tooth. This can progress quickly into an infection if left untreated.

Early Action Prevents Bigger Problems

The sooner you call your dentist, the more likely we can treat the tooth with a simple filling instead of a more complex procedure like a root canal.

How Cavities Are Treated at Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV

When you visit our Reno dental office, we’ll perform a gentle, thorough exam using digital X-rays and cavity-detection technology to locate decay early. Most cavities can be treated with:

• Tooth-colored fillings for a natural look
• Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
• Crowns or onlays for larger restorations

Our focus is always on comfort, prevention, and preserving your natural smile.

How to Prevent Cavities Before They Start

You can protect your teeth from decay with a few simple daily habits:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove food and plaque
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Visit Sala Family Dentistry in Reno every six months for a cleaning and exam

Preventive care is the easiest, most effective way to avoid cavities and keep your smile healthy for years to come.

Schedule a Cavity Check with Sala Family Dentistry in Reno, NV

If you notice sensitivity, pain, or dark spots on your teeth, don’t wait! A quick visit can stop cavities before they turn into bigger issues. Sala Family Dentistry makes every appointment comfortable, convenient, and focused on your long-term oral health.

Schedule your dental exam today!