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Cavities are sometimes an unfortunate part of life. They can happen to anyone, regardless of their dental hygiene. That’s why at Children’s Dental & Orthodontics in Dallas we work with you and your child to develop recommendations for a treatment plan based on their unique needs. If you think your child may have one, look for these cavity signs and see if you need to schedule a visit with us. 

Cavity Sign #1: White Spots on Tooth 

The white spot on a tooth is an indicator of a cavity that is forming. If left to persist without attention, it will turn into a hole or pit in the tooth itself. Sometimes these form in places that you can’t see or feel, such as crevices between your teeth. If you see a hole or pit in your child’s tooth, you should make an appointment immediately. These do not heal on their own and require professional attention. 

Cavity Sign #2: Sensitivity to Hot and Cold 

If your child is drinking anything hot or cold and says that their mouth hurts, it may be from a cavity. This is because the enamel of a tooth is weakened, affecting the dentin which is softer than enamel and porous. Due to the lack of enamel left to protect the dentin, anything hot or cold will stimulate the nerve inside the tooth. Without the shielding of the enamel, extreme changes in temperature will pass through the dentin to the cells and nerves. Because it’s better to be safe than sorry, if your child is reporting a sensitivity to hot and cold, reach out to one of us today. 

Cavity Sign #3: Sensitivity to Sweets 

Aside from hot and cold drinks, your child may also report a sensitivity to eating sweets such as sugary candy or soft drinks. It’s similar in effect to hot and cold, with the enamel worn down and unable to protect the dentin. Sugar overstimulates the cells and nerves by way of the dentin, causing pain for your child. It’s never fun when your child’s favorite sweets cause pain, so if they tell you it hurts to eat these things, it’s time to schedule an appointment to check for any cavities. 

Cavity Sign #4: Toothache 

This is the age-old sign that your child may have a cavity formed. The jaw area itself can be affected by pain and discomfort. Toothache usually lasts for several days and does not recede, unlike sensitivity to drinks and sweets. If your child says their tooth hurts and nothing seems to help, it is more than likely they have a cavity. 

Remember: Don’t Panic! We’ve Got Your Back 

While fewer kids are getting tooth cavities, about 43% of children between the ages of 2 to 19 have one or more cavities. If you have children, there’s a high chance you’ll be taking them to the dentist at some point in their life for tooth pain and wondering what the symptoms of cavities are.  

Symptoms of cavities are not always indicative of there actually being one. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for this and to schedule regular visits. To reach out and schedule an appointment with Children’s Dental and Orthodontics in Dallas, click here.