We all know the importance of good oral hygiene and visiting our Calgary dentist for all routine check-ups. What you might not be aware of is you can identify and detect cavities early on in their formation from the comfort of your home. Catching dental issues early will prevent more severe problems from forming further down the road. Knowing which signs to look for is the key, that way if you’re experiencing any of them you can make an appointment to correct it. One of Calgary’s great dental clinics, Marlborough Dental, wants to explain what you should look for to improve your chances of cavity prevention.
To understand how to prevent cavities, you need to understand how they develop. Our mouths are home to many forms of bacteria and as a consequence they generate a form of acid. This acid will eventually deteriorate our enamel, which is the hard, exterior of our teeth that provides protection against all foreign debris and bacteria. Once the enamel is eroded, the acid permeates the softer dentin layer and forms a cavity. Dentists can usually identify cavities in your mouth during regular appointments, but you can survey your mouth in between visits to observe the state of your teeth.
Not all cavities present the same symptoms, but typically being aware of the following indicators will help you identify early signs of decay so you can tend to the cavity straightaway and prevent issues from intensifying:
- Discolouration is usually the first sign of a cavity. So examine your teeth in the mirror for any unusual colour. The discolouration can be yellow, brown or off-white. Any colour that seems abnormal compared to your other teeth can be a potential problem.
- Teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures or even sweetened foods can signify there’s decay or a cavity present. If the sensitivity persists, you most likely have an infection.
- Pain is another indicator of tooth decay. If the pain in constant, you should make an appointment with your Calgary dentist immediately.
Since some cavities and decay don’t present any symptoms at all, it’s advisable to be diligent with your routine dental appointments and your oral hygiene routine. Being aware of some potential infection symptoms will also alert you to oral health problems so you can quickly correct it. If you think you may have a cavity or need to make a routine dental appointment, call the experts at Marlborough Dental Centre in NE Calgary at 403.248.2066.
