Cavities are one of the most common issues seen by dentists in Puyallup, Graham, Tacoma, and surrounding areas. But they are sneaky. One day, your tooth feels fine, and the next, you are wincing every time you have a sip of something cold. Even a small cavity can lead to discomfort, damage, and costly treatments if not addressed on time. At Meridian South Family Dentistry, our goal is to help patients recognize the signs of a cavity early, understand how cavities in teeth develop, and know how to address them before they become serious.
This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about cavities: what a cavity is, what a cavity looks like, how to know if you have a cavity, and what steps you should take next. We’ll also cover how to prevent cavities in the future with tips from our expert team of cosmetic dentists in Puyallup, Graham, Tacoma, and nearby areas.
What Is Cavity?
A cavity is a permanently damaged area in the shape of a tiny hole on your tooth, which is formed due to tooth decay. This process begins when small food particles, such as sugar and bacteria, form a sticky substance on your teeth known as plaque. According to top dentistry experts in Tacoma who specialize in treating cavities and preventing tooth decay, it may start small, but it can grow larger and more significant if left unaddressed.
How Does a Cavity Form?
- Plaque builds up on the teeth.
- Bacteria in the plaque convert sugars into acids.
- Those acids erode the tooth enamel.
- Over time, this erosion creates a cavity in the teeth.
Types of Cavities
- Pit and fissure cavities (usually on molars)
- Smooth surface cavities (along the sides of teeth)
- Root cavities (exposed tooth roots) are common in people with gum recession
If the damage spreads, it can affect deeper layers of your tooth, affecting the dentin and sometimes even the pulp. It may even require a root canal or extraction if left untreated.
What Does a Cavity Look Like?
Many people expect the cavity to appear as large holes. However, cavities in teeth often appear as small spots or surface discoloration that are very easy to miss without a trained eye. These early indicators are not even painful, which is why many people don’t realize a cavity in their tooth is forming until the condition worsens. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for, as it can help you identify the issue before it becomes a problem.
It is one of the most common questions heard by dentists: “What does a cavity look like?” The appearance or signs of a cavity can vary depending on the location and stage of development.
Signs You Might See
- A visible hole or spot in the tooth
- Dark brown, black, or white spots
- Chalky, rough surface
- Discoloration that doesn’t go away after brushing
The people ask the question, “Is this a cavity or a stain?” The major difference is that the stain usually affects the surface color, whereas a cavity is typically darker and it feels rough or has soft spots.
As soon as you notice any stain or symptom, the best course of action is to consult a trusted professional, such as Meridian South Family Dentistry. Our experienced dentists in Tacoma, Puyallup, Graham, and nearby locations thoroughly evaluate and help you detect cavities early, protecting your smile.
How to Detect a Cavity?
Other than the appearance, there are some symptoms that you should never ignore:
- The tooth feels sensitive when you eat something hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Lingering toothache, even if it is mild
- Pain when you bite or chew food
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Visible holes or spots on your teeth
When you start feeling these symptoms of cavities, it clearly indicates that the decay has progressed and immediate attention is needed.
Even if it doesn’t hurt yet, our experienced dentists in Puyallup, Graham, and Tacoma can detect early signs of tooth decay before the problem progresses. That’s why routine checkups are so helpful; they’re your first defense against deeper dental issues.
Causes of Cavities in Teeth
Cavities don’t just appear overnight. They are usually the result of a series of factors that slowly wear down your enamel over time. It can be due to diet, hygiene habits, or other health conditions. Knowing what contributes to tooth decay is the first step in cutting down the risk of cavities in teeth. Identifying common causes of dental cavities is a crucial step in minimizing your risk and protecting your smile.
Common Culprits
Snacking on sugary foods and beverages
- Poor dental hygiene routine (not brushing or flossing every day)
- Dry mouth or reduced saliva flow (as saliva protects your teeth)
- Acidic food and drinks (like soda and fruit juice)
- Skipping your regular dental checkups
If cavities seem to pop up often for you, it might be the right time to assess your habits and daily routine, and schedule a dental checkup for cavity assessment.
What to Do Next If You Suspect a Cavity?
When you notice a sign or experience any symptom of a cavity, don’t panic. Cavities are fixable. Taking early action on your part can make a significant difference. Here is what you can do.
- Schedule a checkup with your dentist as soon as possible.
- Get a proper diagnosis through X-rays or visual exams.
- Follow the suggested treatment for cavities, which could include:
- Dental fillings for mild decay
- Crowns (for larger areas of cavities)
- Root canal (if the cavity has reached the pulp)
At Meridian South Family Dentistry, our caring team of dentists in Graham, Puyallup, Tacoma, and surrounding areas is here to guide you through the entire process. Our experts will guide you through your options and ensure your comfort at every step along the way.
How to Prevent Cavities in the Future?
Preventing cavities is not that difficult. It doesn’t require a complicated routine. You simply need to stay consistent and establish a good oral care routine. When you take the right steps, you can considerably reduce the risk of developing cavities in your teeth and maintain a confident smile. The best way to manage cavities is by avoiding them altogether. You can follow these steps for preventing tooth decay:
Daily Habits:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss once a day to clean between the teeth
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Cut back on frequent snacking or sipping sugary drinks
Long-Term Habits:
- Eat foods rich in calcium and nutrients
- Drink water instead of soda or juice
- Avoid sticky, sugary snacks
- Don’t skip your dental checkups for cavities twice a year
At your routine appointment, we will monitor your oral health and help you spot the early warning signs of a cavity before it becomes a serious problem.
Is Bridge Dentistry Right for You?
Some cavities weaken the tooth to the point where it needs to be removed. If that happens, there is still a solution to it. In such cases, bridge dentistry can provide a reliable and long-lasting solution to protect your smile.
What Is It?
A dental bridge replaces one or more teeth that have been removed by fixing a crown on adjacent teeth to hold an artificial tooth in place. It not only fills the gap but also restores function and appearance.
If you need to have a tooth removed due to a severe case of tooth decay, our team may recommend a dental bridge to fill the gap and restore normal function. Our experienced cosmetic dentists in Tacoma, Puyallup, Graham, and surrounding areas offer a custom-made bridge solution for long-lasting results.
Your Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Let’s be real—cavities in teeth happen to the best of us. However, catching them early can save you from a great deal of pain, both in your mouth and your wallet. By learning the early signs of tooth decay, recognizing a potential cavity, and getting the right treatment for cavities, you’re already on the right track to keeping that smile healthy.
The best way to stay ahead? Schedule regular checkups with your dentist in Puyallup, Tacoma, Graham, or surrounding locations to detect cavities in teeth. And if you’ve already lost a tooth, don’t worry—we’ve got great solutions like bridge dentistry that restore both function and confidence.
Call us today at 253-847-4388 to schedule your cavity exam and experience gentle, expert dental care!
