Once you know that you have a cavity, the symptoms of it can seem obvious, and can the need to treat your tooth as soon as possible. However, until you know you have one, the development of a cavity might not always be immediately obvious. Fortunately, you can spot it faster and more effectively if you know what signs to look for. Today, we examine a few ways that you might know you need a tooth filling, and why it’s important to treat the tooth decay as soon as possible, before the symptoms of it get worse.

Your toothache starts to get more severe

One of the more frequent signs of a cavity forming in your tooth is the tooth becoming increasingly more sensitive. This is a natural response to the processes that lead to the cavity forming, as well as the cavity’s development itself. A cavity is a hole in your tooth structure that forms when the tooth starts to decay, which occurs when the enamel erodes and the exposed main tooth structure becomes infected by harmful oral bacteria. The erosion of your tooth enamel can make your tooth more sensitive at first, and the aching can grow more intense as the decay and cavity grow more severe.

You notice discoloration in your tooth

The sensitivity that your tooth feels when it develops a cavity may not always be a sure sign of the problem, and for some people, it may not become obvious until they notice a change in the tooth’s appearance. As a cavity grows more severe, the decay in your tooth can cause noticeable discoloration in your tooth’s structure. This discoloration won’t respond to teeth-whitening, and will affect only the tooth that is stricken by the cavity. At this point, the infection in your tooth’s structure may be more significant, and it might require more extensive treatment, such as root canal therapy, to save the tooth.

Your dentist finds the cavity during your visit

While there are multiple ways you might be able to suspect you have a cavity, the only way to know for sure is for your dentist to carefully inspect the tooth. Many people learn they have a cavity during a routine dental checkup and cleaning visit, which includes a thorough examination of your teeth and oral tissues to detect tooth decay and other potential oral health concerns. A dental examination will also tell your dentist how extensive the cavity has become and allow for the creation of a highly precise, custom tooth filling to restore your tooth with optimal results.

Learn if your tooth needs a filling

There are multiple signs that might warn you your tooth has a cavity and needs a filling to save it. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600.