Tooth decay, more commonly referred to as cavities, are one of the most common dental problems in the world today – especially in children. Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface or enamel of your teeth. If left untreated cavities can become larger in size and eventually they will begin to affect deeper layers of the tooth. What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay It’s not uncommon for patients who are dealing with cavities to experience zero symptoms prior to diagnosis by a dentist. However, warning signs of this particular dental issue might present in the following ways: Tooth pain Tooth sensitivity Pain when you bite down or brush Visible holes or pits in your teeth What Causes Tooth Decay Tooth decay is a process that occurs over time. Unlike a chipped or cracked tooth, the route to a cavity can take several months or years. The decay is caused when plaque, a clear sticky film, forms on the tooth. Plaque occurs when sugars and starches from things that we eat and drink aren’t properly cleaned off the teeth. (https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay/more-info/tooth-decay-process) Over time, the acids in the plaque will begin to attack the tooth, eating away at the hard,...

Ever gasped in pain after taking a sip of a delicious hot beverage? Have you ever had to stop eating a bowl of ice cream because your teeth just couldn’t handle the cold? While these types of pain can be the sign of a cavity, other times it could be a sign that you’re suffering from sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity by definition is exactly how it sounds – a painful condition that occurs when the inner layer of the tooth (dentin) becomes exposed. Dentin hypersensitivity is the official name of tooth sensitivity and it can affect one, multiple teeth or all the teeth depending on the patient. This type of oral issue can be both a temporary or chronic problem, but the good news is that it’s easy to treat and can often be solved with simple adjustments to your oral hygiene routine. Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth You’re likely to know if you’re suffering from sensitive teeth as you’ll experience pain or discomfort when your teeth are exposed to various stimuli. The most common triggers in patients are hot and cold foods or beverages, cold air, sweet or acidic foods, brushing and flossing, and alcohol-based mouth rinses. The sensitivity may...