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What to Do if You See Signs of a Cavity


Posted on 5/25/2019 by Office of Dr. James A. Krippaehne
What to Do if You See Signs of a CavityA cavity occurs when the enamel and cementum of the teeth is destroyed, and it can lead to toothaches and a host of other oral health problems. If you notice signs of a cavity, it is important that you take steps to treat the problem and to control your symptoms.

Call Our Office


If you notice signs of a cavity, including pain, a black spot, a divot in your teeth, or sensitivity, a call to our office should always be your first step. In their earliest stages, minor cavities are easy to treat. Failure to act in a timely manner will give the cavity time to grow and extend further into your tooth. If this occurs, you might require more invasive treatment in order to restore your tooth.

Keep Your Mouth Clean


Even if you have a cavity, you still need to brush your teeth regularly. It is important to keep your mouth as clean as possible and to control the further spread of bacteria to other teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can help.

Treat the Pain
Some cavities don't produce pain, especially in the beginning, but others may cause discomfort. You might notice pain when you bite or chew, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures could be experienced. There are plenty of ways to minimize your pain while you wait for your appointment, including the use of an over-the-counter pain medication. However, you should take Tylenol or ibuprofen as instructed on the packaging and never apply the medicine directly to the tooth.

Avoid Certain Foods


Certain foods or drinks may aggravate your cavity, so you are best to avoid them. These include foods that are especially acidic or sugary, as well as items served at hot or cold temperatures. Once we treat your cavity, you'll be able to return to your normal diet.

Do you see or feel the signs of a cavity? If so, call our office today to set up your appointment.
WE TREAT OUR PATIENTS WITH RESPECT
We believe in educating patients about their treatment options and listening to their questions and concerns.
WE BELIEVE IN HEALTHY TEETH FIRST
We focus on prevention so that you keep your smile healthy. We provide excellent comfortable care for all procedures.
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